“It Smells like Cupcakes”
Recently I visited a classroom to observe the initial roll-outs and introduction of iPads to a Kindergarten class. Entering into the room, I could already feel the “buzz” and anticipation as 24 students sat patiently and anxiously in their little seats waiting to be handed a brand new iPad.
The whole event itself felt equivalent to a high school graduation or to Christmas Day; multiple support staff were present in addition to upper grade student volunteers, iPads stacked delicately with brand new gadgetry waiting to be handed off to an eager hand, and kids with eyes beaming in anticipation for what was to come. This was a big day.
As the iPads were being distributed to the children, I overheard “OOHs” and “AAHs;” excitement poured through the air. Through the sea of smiles and wiggly bodies, I saw a young boy gently put his face near the device and whisper to himself, “It smells like cupcakes.”
It smells like cupcakes…
I was so tickled by this child’s comment because it helps convey how much kids are drawn to technology and how powerful the tool can excite. On the other hand, I was surprised at the level of amazement permeating in the class. Isn’t technology present everywhere? I began to think, maybe these children have never seen an iPad before or held one in their hands. Maybe these children have never had the chance to learn with one or haven’t had one to themselves. Then I began to wonder about opportunities, about equity.
What is the purpose of school if not to give children opportunities? Opportunities to develop their skills, be exposed to new ideas, learn with others and become advocates for themselves. In this era of innovation and continual technological advances, we need to ensure our children are given these opportunities; and alongside them, opportunities to engage in digital learning. If we are not giving them these experiences then we are not providing equitable access for our children; we are not allowing them to develop their skills in full capacity or teaching them how to utilize all resources to their fullest advantage.
I strongly believe that schools need to invest in technology for students; not just for the sake of technology but for the sake of equitable access to learning. The focus must be on equitable learning and the advancement of our teaching practices. As noted earlier, students are innately drawn to technology and what a great advantage for teachers to use this innate curiosity and excitement to create purposeful and engaging learning experiences. If schools want to be in the forefront of education, they need to be in the forefront of innovation. Tech-infused learning provides access to knowledge; to worlds students may otherside not have the opportunity to explore. It allows for creativity and creation and access to the tools that allow for self-expression and transformation. Above all, technology is a gate-keeper for everyone to continuously advance their own expertise and to continuously impart knowledge with others. In order for students to succeed in a multi-faceted society, comprised of a “liquid network” of knowledge, schools must provide equitable access to technology that enhances learning and student outcomes.
Although “It smells like cupcakes” can seem far fetched from advocating for equitable access to technology and opportunities for children, it is a pure and innocent validation to why technology is so important in our classrooms. If not only to provide opportunities for all children to be innovative and learn with modern advances, then for our children to learn equitably with excitement and affection.
Johnson, Steven 2010 “Where Good Ideas Come From”
