Where we are headed…
Chapter 9 in “Web 2.0: new schools, new tools”, focused on where we are now as far as technology is concerned and what direction we should be heading in. It states that 40 percent of American households either do not have a computer or internet access. This is unacceptable. How can we have our students “stretch” their brains if there is no continued support at home. I know it’s not the families fault but as a country we can do more to “improve” the technology standards within our homes.
In order for schools to improve the use of technology in the system. Everyone from the students up to the superintendents need to be using technology on a daily basis. Schools need to work with parents and the governments to get smaller models of the technology that is being used in schools in the homes.
And finally we as teachers need to be creativein coming up with ways to integrate techonology into all aspects of education.
There is an social, educational, and technological divide in this country. We all need to step up to the plate and do our part to shrink the divide.
July 12th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
I agree with you about the divide in technology, there is just one problem: how? It is really difficult to just introduce computers to those who do not have them without getting the computers from somewhere. With the amount of personal information on computer systems, I’m not sure I would be willing to donate my computer to such a cause. I might leave it in my classroom for students to use, but I don’t want a complete stranger to have a machine I previously used that has all my information stored someplace (even after I tried to wipe it). Also, what about internet connections. There are vast areas of this country that don’t even have cell phone service let alone internet capabilities. Is it realistic to expect those who cannot afford the service to travel 40 miles to the nearest Starbucks to use their connections? I’m afraid not. Finally, if internet access becomes a “necessity” and is provided for, are families going to be able to afford the constant updates that are required to keep pace with the vast growing and changing world of technology?
However, despite all these difficulties, I think your comment about teachers being creative is an EXCELLENT point. Teachers are the connection to the vast amount of knowledge available, and students should expect and rely on their teachers to help them AND enable them to access it. By incorporating technology inside and outside the classroom, students will develop the skills they were previously lacking, perhaps not as quickly as we’d like, but at least they are improving. Teachers and administrators though they may not be able to provide the students with computer, can help keep them and include them in the classroom, you are absolutely right. Just another reason I think it is important that students be required to ATTEND school, contrary to what is suggested in WEB 2.0. School is the place where certain things that students may not have at home will be provided for, computers being high on that list.
Thanks for sharing your ideas with me!! Let me know about what you come up with and esp more on this topic, I find it really intriguing!