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An American college student was asked why he lugs his laptop around everywhere with him in a rucksack, instead of just logging into college PC for a few hours. He answered

"It's part of my brain. Why would I want to leave it behind in a computer lab?"

I understand where this student is coming from. If I have to function without my laptop or mobile phone I don't feel like I'm missing a limb. I feel like I'm missing my second brain.

Check out Donald Philip's article The Knowledge Building Paradigm: A Model of Learning for Net Generation Students. The article is worth a read despite the uncatchy title and the hassle of registration for access. You'll find out more about how technology is not just a desirable addition to the educational experience, but is essential - providing us with thinking prosthetics or mind tools.

The article explores the idea that schools must move from the industrial model of classrooms (which also reflects the traditional broadcast media) to a more interactive, elective model of learning.

Find out how learners are moving from linear to 'hypermedia' learning. How we're moving from 'instruction' to construction and discovery. From just learning material by rote to learning how to discover and filter information. Discover how teachers will have to evolve from being transmitters to facilitators (an analogy that should guide those broadcasters with an educational remit...).