Blog # 3 Looking Up

http://acampbell99.wordpress.com/

Andrew Campbell is an elementary teacher in Brantford, Ontario.  I find his blog to be provocative and passionate.   His background includes co-hosting Staff Room Radio, a bi-weekly podcast about educational issues in Ontario and Canada.  He has also been interviewed by the National Post, Toronto Star and Globe and Mail, with several articles related to education and technology.

His views challenge many current educational practices, demonstrating his commitment to contribute to the online discussion of education in Ontario.  One of his posts states reasons he feels that "teaching digital citizenship doesn't work".  While he regularly integrates technology in his classroom, he argues that there is no need for a new list of rules for internet use.  The classroom rules we establish should cover behaviour in all aspects of students' lives.  Teaching students this concept should be the main focus.  Another interesting post states what he feels are "the 5 most over-hyped trends in education".  In his opinion, the flipped classroom and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) will ultimately not be successful strategies in schools.  While I may not agree with all of his views, he does stimulate further thought and discussion on the issues facing today's classroom.

This blog is most useful as a resource to read and comment on current issues in education in Ontario.  There are fewer Ontario edublogs than I expected to find while searching the internet.  Many of the blogs and/or teacher sites that I research focus on resources and practical applications in the elementary classroom.  Reading Andrew Campbell's blog, however, is an excellent way to gain insight into another teacher's views on issues affecting all Ontario teachers.  Comments from others add to the conversation.  His point of view is clearly articulated and I appreciate his candid opinions.  His blog definitely adds to the discussions we all should be having with colleagues, parents and others.  I definitely recommend you check out Andrew's blog.