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Education Is Not an App

The future of university teaching in the Internet age

Jonathan Rees author Jonathan A Poritz author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:8th Aug '16

Should be back in stock very soon

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Education Is Not an App cover

This book critically explores the impacts of technology on educators and the future of higher education, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful implementation.

While much has been discussed regarding the opportunities technology presents for students, its effects on educators have received less attention. Education Is Not an App delves into the dual nature of educational technology, highlighting both its potential benefits and the concerns it raises for faculty and teaching standards. The book underscores that, while technology can enhance learning experiences, it also poses risks that could undermine the quality of education if not managed properly.

This insightful work offers a critical examination of the economic landscape surrounding educational technology, particularly the financial challenges faced by institutions globally. It emphasizes the importance of control in determining whether technology serves beneficial or detrimental purposes. The author argues that when educational technology is wielded by thoughtful and caring educators, it can unlock tremendous potential for positive change. The book serves as both a guide to the latest advancements in edtech and a resource for faculty, technology experts, and policymakers seeking to comprehend the broader implications of technology in higher education.

Education Is Not an App provides the first comprehensive critique of the political economy of educational technology. It is an essential read for concerned educators and anyone interested in shaping the future of higher education, advocating for a vision rooted in faculty autonomy and the university's mission of promoting the common good.

'This is a timely, and essential, book. The authors avoid the common trap of being firmly in a pro- or anti- technology camps and instead view the application of educational technology through a political economy lens. Your classrooms are no longer solely your own, they argue. Educational technology, often driven by Silicon Valley ideology, has particular aims in education. Examining the claims made and the implications for all educators allows us to make informed decisions. The control of education is at stake, and this book sets out the key areas with clarity and passion.' — Martin Weller, Professor of Educational Technology, The Open University, UK

‘Digital technologies can expand or contract freedom for faculty and students, depending on who's making the decisions. In Education is Not an App, Poritz and Rees describe both the threat and the opportunity, and issue a clear call for faculty control of our new digital tools.’
— Clay Shirky, Professor of Social Media, New York University, USA

'This book captures the frustration of many faculty who are witnessing the decline of faculty governance against the rise of administrative fiat, particularly in areas that impact pedagogical choice. In seven main chapters, the authors provide a detailed view of the systems and decisions that are so often thrust upon faculty. They do a superb job describing the landscape of MOOCs, FLOSS, and LMS in everyday language.'
-Joanne Maguire Robinson, Reflective Teaching

ISBN: 9781138910416

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 226g

134 pages