The Rebirth of the Tablet
Early teaching was one-on- one or in very small groups where wealthy persons hired tutors for their children. These tutors used the technology available at this time to enhance their teaching. In these earliest times the technology was based on the tablet and stylus.
The very earliest writing known to history is found in the area now known as Mesopotamia. It consisted of markings impressed into soft clay tablets which were then dried. These marks were made by a very sharp implement called a stylus. Writing of this nature was a very personal affair.
The Romans, on the other hand, developed sheets of wax which were spread over wooden tablets. Their stylus had a sharp end for scratching marks in the wax and a flattened end to erase.
The ancient Egyptians invented a writing surface called papyrus sometime in the third millennium B.C. It was made from layers of thin sections of reeds, and made such a practical surface that it was adopted all over the Mediterranean world, including Greece and Rome. The best tool for writing on papyrus was a reed pen.
As schooling was extended to all children and classes got bigger, teachers moved toward the chalkboard which allowed many children to be taught at the same time. This sometimes meant that slower students were left behind.
With the advent of projectors and smart boards, teachers could now incorporate graphics which could help to engage students more. However, slower students in the class may still not be able to keep up.
Today the tablet and stylus have come full circle. Once more students are able to work at their own pace and interact with materials on a one-on-one basis. Can you see how this can work for you in your classroom?
Teachers have never been afraid to embrace technology. Our greatest challenge at this time will be: The resources to provide for those students who can’t afford Managing the use to which students put the technology Repealing regulations that prohibit students from bringing electronic equipment and cell- phones to school.