NEGATE THE NEGATIVES: Here's an interesting approach for the next technology adoption brouhaha. Before discussing the merits of any classroom technology, ask yourself (or your team) why the product, tool, hardware, or service should *not* be implemented in the classroom. Educator Jeff Herb thinks playing devil's advocate is a worthwhile endeavor because all too often "valuable instructional time is lost due to haphazard technology usage." He smartly points out that starting with the negatives helps identify "instant deal breakers." Any other negatives would then become action items to "brainstorm" toward solution or compromise.
We're intrigued by the idea. Starting with constructive conversation around the negatives could build a stronger sense of ownership among (would-be) naysayers and minimize unproductive bickering.
