"Questions on Wired Schools"
Bonnie Rothman Morris
New York Times, http://www.nytimes.com/2000/10/05/technology/05SKOO.html
October 5, 2000
This article talks about how computers enhance learning in the classroom by using the World Wide Web, digital cameras, scanners and more.
"Debate Over School Computers"
Katie Hafner
New York Times, http://www.nytimes.com/2000/10/05/technology/05KIDS.html
October 5, 2000
This article talks about the mixed information that is out there on the benefits of computers in childrens' lives. It talks about the use of technology in the classroom, their effectiveness and how they affect the students' learning.
"New Study: Technology Boosts Student Performance"
Cara Branigan
eSchool News, http://www.eschoolnews.org/showstory.cfm?ArticleID=1652
October 3, 2000
The article talks about a 2 1/2 year study done by Westat, a research firm based is Maryland, to find out how Illinois schools use technology and what effect it has on the students' performance. The conclusion from the study was that Illinois' technology investment is paying off. They feel they are seeing a relationship between student achievment and computers in the classroom.
"Teachers, Teach Thyself"
Si Dunn and Connie Dunn
Computer User, http://www.computeruser.com/articles/1910,1,2,1,1001,00.html
October 1, 2000
This article explains the importance of teacher amd principal computer training and internet access. It also gives information on where people can get help online.
My Opinion
According to the NAEYC's position (1996)"appropriate technology should be integrated into regular learning environments and used as one of the many options to support children's learning" (p.67). In order to do this, computers need to be located in the classroom. Technology is everywhere and "it plays a significant role in all aspects of American life today" (p.66). Technology can be used in many ways throughout the classroom. Many children do not have access to computers outside the classroom, therefore having computers in the classroom will give them daily access.
Another reason for having computers in the classroom is that "technology based methods have successfully promoted several kinds of motivational strategies" (Roblyer, Edwards, Hauriluk ,1997, p.29). When used appropriately, technology can enhance children's social and cognitive abilities. Technology gains the learners' attention, engages the learner through production work, promotes creativity, self-expression, and feeling of self-efficacy, and increases perception of control. Students feel an increase in motivation when they feel that they are in control of their own learning(p.29). "At its best, technology adds value to the work being done and can change the way children think" (Hausman, 1999, p.8).
Right now, there are no computers in my school and many of the parents have expressed that they would like to have them in the classrooms. They believe that their children would benefit from being able to explore computers in school because they are a great educational tool. There is also wonderful software for young children. Being expose to computers so young will enable nursery school children to be prepared for elementary school where computers are used on a regular basis. Children need to be exposed to technology at a young age in order to be computer literate as they are growing up. I feel that having computers in classrooms will not only benefit the children but also the teachers. They can use the computers to enhance their curriculum, create a curriculum, do research, or even talk to teachers around the world. Since technology is everywhere and is an integral part of today's worlds, it is an essential toll for our children's future.
Research has provided us with concrete information and examples that show the positive affects of computers in the classroom. Many professionals feel that computers are nonsocial and isolating, not allowing for any interactions with one another. Research has shown that children prefer working with partners at the computer instead of alone. When working on computers, children tend to seek help from their peers over the help from the teacher. They engage in higher levels of communication and cooperation and initiate interactions more freqently. Children also engage more often in turn taking when working at the computer (NAEYC, 1996, P.67).
"Computers not only support and enhance children's creativity, self-esteem and cooperative learning, but can also help them develop a fearless, joyful attitude toward all learning" (Thouvenelle, 1994, p.49).
References
Hausman, C. (1999, February).Beyond the computer lab and into the classroom. In Big apple parent, 14(2) pp.7-8.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (1996). NAEYC position statement:technology and young children-ages three through 8. In Bishop, D., & Hirschbuhl, J.J.(Eds), Computers in education (8th ed.)(pp.66-70).Guilford, CT:Duskin/McGraw-Hill.
Roblyer, M.D., & Edwards, Jack, & Havriluk, Mary Ann. (1997). Integrating Education Technology into Teaching.Upper Saddle River, NJ:Prentice Hall.
Thouvenelle, S. (1994, February). Do computers belong in early childhood?> In Scholastic early childhood today.pp. 48-49.
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