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Computer‐Based Education: a case for planned culture change in the school
Author(s) -
Blumenfeld G J,
Hirschbuhl J J,
AIRubaiy A A
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
british journal of educational technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.79
H-Index - 95
eISSN - 1467-8535
pISSN - 0007-1013
DOI - 10.1111/j.1467-8535.1979.tb00383.x
Subject(s) - parallels , sociology , adaptation (eye) , technological revolution , technological change , public relations , pedagogy , political science , computer science , engineering , psychology , operations management , artificial intelligence , neuroscience
The paper relates the uptake of computer‐based education in schools to the socio‐cultural pattern operating in the school. It is suggested that innovational disseminators must become involved in the behaviour and communication pattern of the school if they are to successfully introduce their innovation. The need for the user to perceive personal benefits and the need to involve local leadership in introducing an innovation is emphasized. A 1972 Carnegie Commission Report suggests that the education industry is currently sitting on the brink of its first technological revolution in five centuries—the revolution of the new electronics. According to this report, three major revolutions in education have already taken place. The first three revolutions were marked by the introduction and adaptation of the written word; the use of textbooks that followed the invention of movable type; and the implementation of universal public education. The fourth revolution can facilitate attainment of universal public education by introducing technology associated with electronic communication and data processing systems. However, few educational institutions have availed themselves of this opportunity. This paper deals with general concepts of planned culture change that could reduce education's resistance to technological change. Ethnographic parallels are utilized to demonstrate the use of the principles of culture change and technological innovation in the culture of the schools.