Words I don’t like 2: toolkit

Tools are only useful if you know how to use them. My problem with the way the term ‘toolkit’ is used in educational development is the implication that having some 'tools' is all that stands in the way of a novice gaining expertise in an area (e.g. student employability).

My home toolbox contains a coping saw. A coping saw is used to handsaw in unusual shapes (e.g. curves). From experience I know that they are very difficult to use. Tools are only useful is you a) have the right tools and b) know how and when to use them. Having the right tools is a first step towards mastery, but without any personal investment in learning how to use the tools the consequences can be unsightly and dangerous.

  • Twitter
  • del.icio.us
  • Digg
  • Facebook
  • Technorati
  • Reddit
  • Yahoo Buzz
  • StumbleUpon