My Understanding of Theory of Disruption

Christensen relates the problems in our education system to the budget issues, computer shortage, lack of parent support, ineffective teaching, teaches’ union and problems of standardized tests.  While he explains that these issues are also prevalent in countries that continue to outperform our students, he brings up a point that these issues cannot merely be responsible for the problem we have with our education system in U.S. 


The theory of disruption explains how people interact with each other and react to changes and form their behavior.  Christensen who develops this theory first in the business world attempts to apply the theory to our education system.

He explains that in our education system disruption is the positive force of innovation that challenges schools to employ student-centric approach as opposed to using the same instruction to all students regardless of individual learning needs.  His argument is based on the theory of multiple intelligence which asserts students learn in numerous modalities. 

He argues that schools should customize education for each student’s learning style so students have opportunities to learn in ways that match their intelligence type.   While he recognizes schools’ limitations, he argues that computer-based learning could be a possibility to meet individual learning needs.

If my understanding is correct this theory suggests using more computers and less interaction between teachers and students and a complete change of classroom structure.  I think it is necessary to use student-center approach to teaching especially in math and science and use computers, but only as a supplement to good teaching.  For example, this year, we got smart boards in our classrooms.  This is a great technology tool to check student understanding and so far everyone is excited and on board with this innovation.