The Pencil Metaphor

by

Lindy McKeown

When reflecting on why every teacher isn't using their computers and Internet connections productively when schools have had computers since the early 80s and the Internet has been in schools since the early 90s, I came up with this metaphor for the various positions people assume in relation to the uptake of information and communications technologies. It might apply at other times of change as well.

 

The lead-ers (Say led)

These are the first to take on the technology, the early adopters who usually document and enthusiastically share what they have tried - warts and all. 

The sharp ones

These are the people who see what the early adopters have done, willingly grab the best of it, learn from the mistakes of others and do great stuff with their students.

The wood (Would)

These people would use the technology if someone would just give them the gear, set it up, train them and keep it running. All they need is some help from some sharp person and they'll be doing it too.

The dead wood

This part of the pencil can never be sharpened no matter how hard you try. Even when the point is still sharp, this little left over bit doesn't seem to be of much use for the task at hand. In a pinch it can be used for the most basic of tasks.

The eraser

This is used to undo as much if not all the work done by the lead-ers.

Optional extra - the hanger-on

Hangers-on know all the right lingo, attend all the seminars, but just don't actually do anything.


Copyright Lindy McKeown   lindy@lindymckeown.com