When did you first become interested in the use of computers in education?
ML: I became interested in the use of computers and education 10 years ago when I volunteered to train teachers in Baltimore who were members of their labor union.
How did the OLPC DC Learning Club get formed?
ML: The OLPC Learning Club DC was formed to provide support to DC-area residents who contributed to the One Laptop per Child Give 1 Get 1 program. Donors received an XO-1 laptop for their own use while funding one or a child in a developing country. We meet monthly and more information can be found at http://www.olpclearningclub.org
What is your connection to the MIT Media Lab?
ML: I have been my employer's corporate sponsor liaison to the MIT Media Lab in Cambridge, MA for the last six years. Through that role, I've been blessed with the opportunity to become deeply engaged with Media Lab staff and projects. That is how I first learned of One Laptop per Child.
Are you a constructivist educator?
ML: When I taught undergraduate courses in computer graphics at the Maryland Institute College of Art in the 90s, I wasn't familiar with constructivism or constructionism. If I were to teach today, I would definitely embed contructionist techniques into my classes.
What are your favorite web sites and magazines?
ML: One of my favorite web sites is Techmeme, which aggregates technology news from many other sites. Some of my favorite magazines are The Week and the Harvard Business Review.
Where do you see learning and schools moving to in the coming years?
ML: I'm hopeful about the ongoing adoption of technology in school environments in the coming years as costs and complexity drop. But I think more innovation will happen in after school programs and in the home. I'm hoping that free municipal broadband will become more widespread and that should offer amazing opportunities to connect a new generation of low-cost computing devices.
How has being a father given you insights into the learning process?
ML: Being a father to a precocious six-year-old has given me a first hand look at child development. What I've learned is that children love to be collaborators in designing the learning experiences. They often seem to have an innate feel for how best to consume media, but of course need loving guidance too.
What do you believe is the purpose of schools?
ML: I think schools are an essential institution in the fabric of society. They provide an organized way for children to discover knowledge and become socialized with their peers.
What do you believe is the purpose of public libraries?
ML: Libraries provide free knowledge to citizens. They are also an important community congregation place.
Do nonprofit organizations have a role to play in our education system?
ML: Non-profits play a vital role in providing financial support to education systems. They also push for innovation.
What are your views on Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)?
ML: I fully support the FOSS movement, particularly in education. But I do not go so far as to banish other non-FOSS content and tools from my life. I am more of an agnostic in how I use computer technology and digital media.
You can get in touch with Mike at curiouslee@gmail.com.
