January 7, 2009 
I heard this story on CNN this morning about the smartboards that schools are using these days to replace chalkboards. They talked about how easy it was for kids to respond and ask questions using text messaging versus raising their hands.
Is this a good thing? I definitely feel a little torn. On the one hand, this is great for the shy kids who might not otherwise participate in class. On the other hand, these kids won’t survive in the real world without being able to speak up and talk in front of others. They can’t sit in a meeting and just text their response.
Human interaction without an intermediary is irreplaceable. Among other social benefits, communicating personally erases anonymity which encourages honesty reinforces accountability. Because of honesty and accountability, one is incented to be more thoughtful and less flippant when responding to ANY thing. Increased thinking or thoughtfulness leads to innovation. We must not let innovative technology kill innovation. Is this not technicide?