Can kids learn interpersonal skills & build self-esteem online?

There is a whole lot going on in the world of textbook publishing as I’m sure you’ve read.

There is a push to create or reformat textbooks to be compatible with various electronic devices.  E-books are less expensive, more environmentally friendly and more accessible to more people. Supposedly.

We don’t really know about any of these things long-term though.  Disposing of electronic hardware is an environmental issue too; not everyone has access to computers, tablets and smart phones when they need them; and I can’t imagine that too many publishers and authors are going to take a profit cut just because they provide books in e-formats. They’ll make it up somewhere, she said cynically.  

Before I continue, let me say, I’m not biased here. Really. We have an IPhone app and have more e-resources in development.

But I love our printed Grow Up. Get a Job. Workbook.

When using it, kids get to interact with adults and other kids as they research, write, present, debate, discuss, design, doodle, illustrate and ponder their futures.

Along the way, they develop interpersonal (life) skills that will serve them well no matter what career path they choose.  

They also get to hear a real live person say things like , “That’s an interesting perspective. I hadn’t thought of that.”

Or, “I didn’t know you were so interested in your uncle’s company. Let’s ask him for a tour.”

Or, “I didn’t realize you were so good at presenting your ideas to a group. You have wonderful stage presence.”

Or, maybe it’s just that kids get to hear the belly laugh their jingle produces or the applause their instructional salesmanship elicits.

Interpersonal skills and self-esteem come from interacting with other people.  In the same room.  Together.  With emotion.  In ways that nurture and celebrate newly discovered  talents and abilities. So kids are motivated to set and achieve  individualized goals. And develop basic career and life  skills they’ll need throughout their lives.

 Then their schoolwork takes on more meaning.

Are the benefits of live, in-person, spontaneous  mentoring  really  e-replaceable?

I guess I could ask Siri.