The google generation is brain dead. – SCN Encourager 3/5/2014

That’s the assessment of one of Britain’s top inventors. 

Trevor Baylis has “built” an impressive career by building things.

He believes in focus and hands-on learning.

As he sees it, the internet, Google, cell phones, and video games are turning the minds of today’s kids into mush.

“Searching” simply isn’t the same thing as exploring.

And Baylis is not alone in his views.

Particularly in his lament that people who spend too much time in front of a screen also tend to acquire too much stomach.

Ouch! This sure hits too close to home. 

Many of the inventions Baylis created over the years have specifically benefited people with disabilities, so he shouldn’t be written off as an old uncaring crank.

He’s sensitive to the world around him.

He just can’t be optimistic about it.

I wonder if Baylis is underestimating the combined talents and commitment of the classroom teachers in his own community.

This is pretty easy to do.

I do it way too often myself whenever I don’t get into our schools regularly and really see what’s really happening.

And I wonder what Baylis would say after reading this article.

It’s called “10 Ways Teacher Planning Should Adjust to the Google Generation.”

The author doesn’t say Baylis is wrong… but rather demonstrates how dedicated and gifted teachers are not throwing in the towel.

They’re developing new approaches to meet new challenges.

Teachers are using fresh instructional strategies to bring out the best in young people just like they always have.

You have to admire the 21st century teachers in our midst.

Creativity and inventiveness are very much alive and well.

I think Baylis would feel good about knowing this.

I’m not sure he relishes being a pessimist.

And I think he’d also feel good knowing that “old cranky guys” are getting sexier and sexier every passing year.

At least that’s what I keep telling myself.

Tom Page, SCN