Chapter 6- Computer and Network Security

Hackers- I think Hackers are very relavant to teachers since some of our students will someday be hackers. I might not be able to prevent my students to become hackers but if any of them do, I hope that they will hack with the common good in mind. Maybe if educators concentrate on building caring learning communities where kids feel valued and value others we won't have to worry about this. Of course we also need parents to support our efforts.

Response to Chapter 5- Privacy

I'm interested in discussing how the Patriot Act impacts American's privacy. It's something that is discussed by the media frequently. I can't make up my mind about as to whether the Patriot Act allows the government to go to far. In one way I'm sure that it does. Historically speaking, the goverment or certain goverment individuals always end up abusing their ability to investigate citizen's private lives. On the other hand, many criminals have been caught and prosecuted because of these investigations. I feel like I don't have anything to hide so I've never worried too much about my private life being invaded. Maybe since I'm a Democrat and a proponent of social justice I should be worried than I am!

Debate rages o0ver digital divide-3rd article by Loretta

Since I have been concerned about inequity between wealthy and poor districts for quite some time I found this article very interesting. It makes sense that the wealthier school districts are going to provide more technology in their classrooms. The kids at the lowere end of the socio-economic spectrum are once again left out. Why do the higher socio- economic kids always have more advantages? The children in the Leavenworth schools do have technology available to them. This is wonderful! Know we need to make sure we have appropriate programs and staff training. We will continue to have to put time and resources into our technology program. Loretta

Assistive Technology Benefits all Students-2nd article by Loretta

This article was an interview with Steve Timmere. It sounds like he has developed a lot of exciting computer programs that all learners can benefit from. Even my kindergartners could benefit from a pragram like Universal Reader where books or passasges are read to them. I hope opur school district will be able to implement Talking Dictionary and Text to Audio. These are programs that help learning disabled students along with everyone else. Loretta