1st Edition
Telling Tales on Technology Qualitative Studies of Technology and Education
This title was first published in 2002.The educational potential of information and communications technology (ICT) has been speculated upon endlessly - from the early days of the micro-computer to the present excitement surrounding virtual education and e-learning. Now, with current multi-billion dollar initiatives such as the UK National Grid for Learning and US Technology Literacy Challenge, ICT is an unavoidable element of education. Yet despite a plethora of promises and policies, new technologies have failed to be wholly integrated into education. Telling Tales on Technology critically examines the role of ICT in education and explores how, given its assumed importance, new technology remains a peripheral part of much of what goes on in education. Based on in-depth qualitative studies, the book takes a comprehensive yet questioning look over the past two decades of educational technology policy and practice and positions it within the wider social, cultural, political and economic notion of the information age. Drawing on interviews with students, teachers, politicians and business people as well as comprehensive documentary analysis, this is an essential text for anyone thinking seriously about the use of ICT in education.
’Neil Selwyn's collection of insightful essays provides a wide ranging overview of the recent history of technology within UK education, from the political imperatives driving its introduction, to its implications within schools. Anyone who wishes to take an informed and balanced approach to understanding the key role of technology in UK schools today would be well advised to read this timely publication.’ Keri Facer, Head of Learning Research, NESTA Futurelab, Bristol, UK ’Dr Selwyn's research into the complexities of new technology in education is recommended to balance the optimistic perspective within the UK and beyond. I advise researchers, policy makers, and educational leaders in schools and universities to read this book.’ Professor Niki Davis, Co-Director of Iowa State University Center for Technology in Learning and Teaching, Iowa State University, USA '...this book stimulates reflection on a number of critical issues and dilemmas and for inclusion in an agenda for research and practice in education which avoids an uncritical adoption of technophile thinking.' Education, Communications and Information
