Critical Review:Journal: Canadian Social Studies v. 40 “‘Power Corrupts, PowerPoint Corrupts Absolutely’ Why Digital Technologies Did Not Change the S

This article was written by Michael Clare, a former Social Studies teacher, who makes several good arguments for and against using technology in the classroom. One of his critical arguments is to not use technology for the sake of using technology; it should be used as a tool that enhances learning and the facilitator should be readily equipped to use such technology with ease.
Most teachers do not have the expertise into integrate technology effectively and they lack software, support and training. Just throwing up any old video from youtube.com is not an effective use of technology in the classroom. Clare also points out that it is important to consider who is benefiting from the use of technology; is it just making your job easier or is it actually enhancing the learning of students? This is important to consider.
Another critical issue is that of the contemporary student and the role technology plays in their life. Students are able to find information quickly but do they know how to use the internet effectively? Cut and paste from wikipedia is not sufficient in demonstrating higher order thinking. It is important for Social Studies teachers to actively teach students how to use the internet for research, without plagiarism.
Clare is not suggesting that the use of technology is obsolete or useless but he does warn against the use of mindless technology and he urges every teacher to take opportunities to advance their understanding of technology, especially when it involves teaching and learning.