New Ed Tech Director Appointed, But is She too Close to Business?

by Mike Smith · 2009-11-06 09:42:00 UTC
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Educational technology has a new leader, coming from one of the most well respected, and education-fond corporations out there. Following months of rumor and anticipation is has been announced that former Apple executive Karen Cator will lead education technology initiatives at the Department of Eduction.

She outlined here philosophy by explaining "We need to craft an entirely new research agenda around this issue so people can’t write that technology doesn’t work. We know it works...but we need to get good at saying and articulating what exactly technology can do” reports EdWeek. Cator used to be a teacher, and was formerly technology director in Alaska, but some critics fear that she isn't so concerned with skills, but most interested in inserting the concerns of business into schools.

Off to a quick start, the Department of Edcuation is asking for your help to update the National Technology Plan, and what direction it should take under the leadership of Karen Cator. Submit you suggestions: "What would you like to see considered in the National Educational Technology Plan?"

Photo credit: Extra Ketchup

Mike Smith is associate editor at Change.org.
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