Classroom technology shouldn't drive reform, education innovator says at University of Oklahoma

Now, he said, technology is developing quickly enough that most people regularly encounter a cellphone app or computer program that they haven't seen before.

“It's no longer a stigma,” he said.

That shift has led some teachers to put students in charge of classroom technology through programs like one-to-one laptops. Meanwhile, the teacher remains in charge of instruction.

Education leaders are still trying to find a good working relationship between technology and instruction, Fullan said. Whatever that solution is, he said, classroom technology must be part of a clear, focused plan for the educational system, whether that system is an individual district or an entire state or province.

Without any kind of direction, he said, classroom technology is simply a tool without a reason for existing.

“A fool with a tool is still a fool,” he said. “And a fool with a powerful tool is actually dangerous.”