Vision For Learning Drives Tech Decisions

Is it about the vision for learning or the technology?

From David Jakes:

Is the true value of the device [sic] found in its form factor, its cost, its available apps, [or] in its ability to connect learners?  

[W]hen you connect learners through that device, no matter what the device is, the device serves as a catalyst for the interactions that fuel learning.  It empowers connections.  I would argue that the connection is most important, that the dialogue of that interaction is essential, and that the sharing of ideas and resources through that interaction represents what the device really should do, that’s the true value, that’s its essence.

I don’t want to talk about operating systems, keyboards, apps or whether the device works with Google Apps.  Every device has some type of limitation.

Is the connection the catalyst that causes a shift in how students learn?  In how teachers design learning experiences?

If it’s not about a fundamental shift in the learning experience, then the technology is only window dressing so we can continue doing the same thing we’ve always done.