Last weekend, I went to HomeGoods to get some Joffrey’s coffee to brew at home. The smell and taste always remind me of being at Disney. As I was standing in line to pay, I saw a marketing poster encouraging customers to buy gift cards or what they like to call a “bargaining hunting license”.
Rethinking Tools
One of the things that came to my mind was how we use the word “tools” to describe various objects or software that help us perform tasks. Tools can be anything from a hammer to a spreadsheet, but they all have one thing in common: they are designed to solve problems. But what if we rethink tools as something more than just problem-solvers? What if we see them as opportunities to create, explore, and express ourselves?
For example, instead of thinking of a camera as a tool to capture images, we could think of it as a tool to tell stories, to share our perspectives, and to inspire others. Instead of thinking of a guitar as a tool to make music, we could think of it as a tool to communicate emotions, to connect with others, and to express our identity. Instead of thinking of a blog as a tool to share information, we could think of it as a tool to start conversations, to build communities, and to influence change.
Learning Tools
This got me brainstorming about other things we could rename or change our perspective on.
Library Card - a knowledge exploration permit
If a gift card is compared to a hunting license, suggesting the ability to obtain goods or services, then a library card could be metaphorically considered a knowledge exploration permit. In this analogy, a library card grants you access to a vast repository of information and resources, allowing you to explore the world of literature, research, and learning available within a library’s collection. Just as a hunting license enables you to seek specific goods or experiences, a library card empowers you to pursue knowledge and information.
Cell Phone - a communication compass
In the context of this analogy, a cell phone could be likened to a communication compass. Similar to how a compass helps navigate the physical world, a cell phone serves as a tool for navigating the digital realm and staying connected with others. It enables communication, access to information, and the ability to explore virtual landscapes. Much like a compass enhances one’s orientation and direction, a cell phone enhances one’s ability to navigate the complexities of the modern, interconnected world.
Journal - an exploration map
Just as an explorer uses a blank map to document their journey, thoughts, and discoveries, a blank journal provides the opportunity to document personal experiences, reflections, and ideas. It serves as a space for creative exploration, self-discovery, and the recording of one’s unique journey through life. Much like an exploration map helps chart uncharted territories, a blank journal allows individuals to navigate the uncharted territories of their thoughts and emotions.
By changing our perspective on tools, we can also change our perspective on ourselves. This works for students too. They can see themselves not only as problem-solvers, but also as creators, explorers, and expressers. Students can discover new possibilities, new challenges, and new joys in using tools.
We can also appreciate the value and beauty of the tools themselves, not just for what they can do for us, but for what they can do with us.
See You Real Soon,
Erin
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