I read these 2: Technology in Schools- One for, one against

Technology in schools: Some say it Doesn't Compute

Much of the arguement against the use of computers is when the users are young children. I think we need to refine our analysis of technology by breaking it down into age groups. We really can't come to any good conclusions until we do so. Why do we over simplify ever single issue in education? Because when we do so no "problem" can ever really be solved. You know what I really think? Until we start really scrutinizing "researchers" personal agendas, we're never really going to come up with accurate data.

Technology in Schools: It Does Make a Difference

ANY EDUCATIONAL TOOL CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE HANDS OF A GOOD TEACHER! Technology can benefit children. So can libraries! How many inner city schools have an adequate library? How many have adequate space? What is the student to teacher ratio? We have some very important problems to address. I worry these problems will be overlooked because of our society's obsession with technology.

How Teachers View Technology

It doesn't suprise me that the teachers in this study found technology to be helpful for their students and for them. I think my computer at school is very helpful for communication wth parents and teachers as well. Most of the teachers in this study had several years of experience. They also had adequate technology training. I think these two elements have helped their students to benefit from computers in their classroom. I believe the teacher is the most important factor in the education of the student.(Besides the Parent.) When you have a good teacher, they will find a way to make the resources they are given, improve their instruction. The more training/ resources teachers have, the better able they will be at individualizing their instruction.

Reaction to : Technology Brings False Promise to School

I found this article very interesting. Since I am a teacher of young children, I am very concerned about to much emphasis on technology. For them, I think exposure to technology is great. I think that a computer is something that young children like to explore. They should be allowed to also explore many other things as well. Are our classrooms equipped with these other resources? Do they have plenty of books, blocks, dramatic play props, models, musical instruments, balls, games etc.? I consider these resources much more critical in child development than a computer. I think that computers are one tool. Todd Oppenheimer is correct when he says that they are being oversold to school districts. Just because you get tools does not mean you know how to use them correctly!

ISTE RULES

In my Kindergarten classroom I feel I am following some of the guidelines set by the iste. I d have some ability in operating the technology in my classroom and I am learning more all the time. I am fortunate enough to have a computer on my desk at school. There are 5 other computers that my students have access to. The kids in my classroom use the computer for reading skills, math skills and exploration of topics that interest them. When I examine the Educational Standards I see that I am making progress in planning learning experiences that are supported by technology. When considering the 4th standard that addresses assessment, I think giving the Star Early Literacy test meets part of this standard. The two standards I need to work harder at meeting are5 and 6. Sometimes I am not always productive when using technlogy because I haven't used it enough to be fluent. I also have never spent much time thinking about the ethical issues related to technolgy. I assume this class will motivate me to do so!

Posting my bog

Hi Andy, I am learning sooo much from thus class so far. I would have never discovered blogging withou this assignment. Thanks! Loretta