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It's quite clear the overarching things I've learned this semester about technology. I mean, just look at my first entry about how embarrassing it is to accidentally tweet and then read the rest of this--how I'm actually sizing up different types of technology based on their usefulness in the classroom based on my understanding of them. Part of me feels like being on a commercial just to help sponsor the idea of Technology. Zoom in on a college student up to her neck in twisted computer chords, her face lit by a blinking computer screen. Announcer: "Are you tired of spending endless hours trying to figure out what all those buttons and keys do?" College student looks up pathetically and nods. "Are you tired of looking like a fool by a little box that can't think for itself?" College student starts to weep. "Now, with just a little assistance, you can conquer a moderate amount of your technology anxieties!" College student beams with joy. Different shot of that same student walking down the stairs of a powerful looking building--possibly a university or corporation. Student: "I used to freak out about all things computer, but now I'm telling my superiors how to do things that can better their lives. Thanks, Technology!"

Waymaker offers four primary interventions that are well-grounded in research and represent a significant shift compared to what students experience in a typical college course. First, by using OER-based content, Waymaker gives every student automatic day one access to the course materials they need to succeed. Textbook affordability becomes a non-issue. Second, Waymaker applies a Mastery Learning-inspired approach, using quizzes and other assessments as learning activities, and not just measurement activities. Students get more than one chance to complete each assessment, along with feedback about where to focus to improve performance. Third, Waymaker uses learning data to provide students with personalized recommendations about where to focus their attention to improve learning. Fourth, Waymaker helps faculty identify and connect with students individually when and where they need help and encouragement. Research suggests these personal relationships can significantly impact student learning.

What many people don’t understand however is that it also threatens the uniquely American ideals of democracy and equality.

When classrooms adopt iPads or other tablets in lower grades amongst younger students, the possibility that those students will be left behind in terms of the greater society decreases dramatically

If low-income students are unlucky enough to attend schools which can’t fund technology purchases, the chance that they’ll find a way out of a low income life becomes less likely.