Brown and Duguid and Education

One of Brown and Duguid's principal observations is that technological advances will not create the revolution than so many information technologists have envisaged. In their perspective, information is meaningful only in a social context. For instance, in an internet chat-room, information exchanges are artificial since they are largely stripped of the social context. Distance learning may be a valid choice for the adult, independent learner. On the other hand, devoid of the social component, distance learning does not always make sense, especially for children. Developing interpersonal skills and becoming aware of their environment are part and parcel of the educational process of children.

Brown and Duguid do not suggest replacing the traditional educational system with a digital learning system, but rather, they visualize a hybrid system which is partially dependent on technology. The changes in education will be evolutionary rather than being revolutionary.

The book does not end with any definite answers or solutions. Instead, Brown and Duguid raise questions that pertain to the future world. In conclusion, the work leaves the reader to ponder over the question of how technological growth will be woven into the educational fabric.