A multi-media exploration of the stunning advances in software and hardware that are quickly enhancing the intelligence and language arts skills of the children and teachers who access and use these tools. Toys for preschoolers (e.g., International Playthings’ dedicated computer Learn to Write ABC), on-line dictionaries that pronounce words in natural-sounding human speech, peer-to-peer software, sophisticated on-line databases, wireless high-speed connections to the Internet, e-books, educational apps for tablets and smartphones, Web-based instructional materials, even procedures to create personal prosthetic memories—are transforming learning and teaching so profoundly that techno-holdouts are quickly falling behind techno-savvy learners and teachers. This presentation is particularly effective as the kick-off or culminating activity in a course. (2 hours)
