In the Johnston/Cooley text, chapter 1, there was strong mention that teachers as well as administrators need to bring in more technology in order to reach the students. The idea is that students have grown up around technology, use technology at home on a daily basis, and can be engaged further if technology is used in the classroom. Although the theory behind this is accurate, the logistics seem to be lacking. Although it is absolutely necessary to use technology in the classroom, it becomes extremely difficult when the majority of educators are teaching in buildings that were constructed from the 1950’s or earlier. If the technology in the building has to updated, then so does the building itself. For example, I am a huge proponent of technology in the classroom, but I have come to the point where I almost don’t want it anymore. I have wires hanging from the ceiling and wires across the floor, which truly limits the amount of teaching space. And now with the limited teaching space, it becomes even more difficult to create small group learning, not to mention the safety hazard that all these wires pose. Johnston/Cooley (2001) state, in regards to technology knowledge and skills, that “today’s students are often far ahead of the adults who work with them (p. 11). But at what price should we force technology into our classrooms, especially when it stifle the movement of the classroom and possible group arrangements. We need more than just technology, there should be a push to build new schools, not simply add technology to outdated buildings.
The Johnston/Cooley text as well as the Hendron text made great points, but both readings failed to mention on a very important aspect of technology and students. Technology is great, and even though computers and such are prevalent throughout our society, there are still many students who do not have any technology at home because their families cannot afford it. This creates problems for those students who must use technology for homework, but do not have access to it. These students are at a huge disadvantage. So even though technology is a great tool, we cannot forget about those students who have limited technology at their disposal.
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Izzy, I see your point about today's school buildings needing to join the 21st century if our teaching is to incorporate technology. Often times, we are more than willing to bring technology into our teaching--we would prefer to utilize technology, in fact--but the sad truth remains that we do not teach in a utopian setting where space and money are non-issues. Not all schools are equipped to handle the physical requirements of technology. There is only so much room!
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, it is sad reality that some families would prefer to own X-box and PS3 gaming systems, rather than maintain a home computer and Internet connection.
Here's a thought: If we expect our students and ourselves to be technologically competent, should school districts or the state provide the technology for student use outside of the school?
Izzy,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great point you make about forcing technology into outdated environments. I have never thought about the problems that will arise when you try to fit technology, along with its wires etc.. into spaces that were never intended for them.
Also in response to Regina; just the other day I was talking to my mother-in-law and she was telling me about a local school district (Lower Merion, PA) that is providing all students with notebooks and they get to keep them. I thought that was pretty amazing.
A school giving out pc notebooks! That is unbelievable. Now that's a way to make an impact.
ReplyDeleteIzzy