Telecommunication in the Classroom: Rhetoric versus Reality

The educational discourse surrounding telecommunication exchanges is analyzed, and it is argued that much of the current research is contradictory, inconclusive, and possibly misleading.

Abstract

Telecommunication exchange projects are currently marketed as curriculum supplements that conveniently satisfy three key K-12 educational reform objectives: better writing skills, enhanced multicultural awareness, and better job preparation for a rapidly expanding global economy. This paper analyzes the educational discourse surrounding telecommunication exchanges, and argues that much of the current research is contradictory, inconclusive, and possibly misleading. The paper also illustrates how the often overly optimistic claims about technology-based projects are problematic in light of the larger, exceedingly complex role of technology in society.