One of the major issues in Education today is the school need to have access to current technology. This means not just access to computers, but the ability to access such items as cable TV, satellite technology, multimedia computers, Internet access, CD-ROM and videodisks. And this access is just not for the students. Teachers need to have the ability to use this modern technology to enhance their teaching methods and curriculum to become more effective and competent in their fields.
The productive side of the computer is still being ignored in this day of advanced technology. Just teaching "computer classes" and the basics of the machine do not help students apply skills in meaningful ways. It should be more than just isolated skills such as the basic operation, terminology and maintenance of equipment and knowing how to use computer-assisted programs. Focus needs to be made on integrated information skills rounding out collective projects that are jointly planned. Students should be able to weigh the value of different types of electronic devices, besides the Internet, for gathering information consisting of databases, CD-ROM sources, identify and apply specific criteria for evaluating these devices, access and assess the value of e-mail and be able to use the computer for other purposes such as
spreadsheets, flow charts, time lines and project plans. From these skills they should be able to focus on how well they meet the task and access the information and evaluate their own work.
But of all the new technology, probably the Internet has had the most impact, not only for the students, but also for the teacher. It was found that integrating the Internet within education removed the constraints of the classroom from a study of West Virginia teachers, library media specialists, and students and provided a new global world of educational resources. It was also a great motivational tool. For teachers, finding out how other educators use the Internet to enhance studies by sharing ideas, lesson plans and resources is a wonderful way to keep current with educational trends.
Unfortunately, there is the issue of pornography on the Internet. But it goes far beyond that single issue. Most educational institutions now have a system of teacher awareness to Internet use and most also have the use of "firewall" protection, even if it is not foolproof.
Community interest is a must in the educational technological arena. By having the community and parents interested in technology, there is more of a chance that some of that technology, including computers, will end up in the home. This motivation translates itself into the obvious fact that to use modern technology or especially computers, the student willingly confronts and absorbs the knowledge needed to use these tools.
Associated with the Internet is the subject of e-mail. Not only is this an effective means of communication, it is also a tool to enhance educational skills. It can be a motivational tool to reinforce a language arts curriculum. It can also be a wonderful tool for exchanging ideas for teachers as well as students. And attachments of personal work, ideas, plans can be exchanged easily. Electronic conferencing is another tool for teachers. Each time someone submits a viewpoint, it just can add to the overall scheme of the subject. It gives the opportunity to see so many different sides to one perspective. It also saves time by not having to plan to meet in a designated place at a designated time.
These are just a few of the issues associated with technology. But with all the studies, it is even more apparent that the root of all the educational technology is teacher training and preparedness. With all the advancements and bright new technology, it will not do anyone any good unless teachers are trained to use it and teach it and to keep current with the latest developments. It is amazing that there are teachers who are hesitant to use technology or to use the Internet for a resource. In many schools some teachers have never even turned on the computer in their room. Then again, it boils down to the teacher. If no one knows how to use technology, what good will it do anyone? If the teacher has the training, then the rest is up to the students.
By recognizing some of these issues it is easier to work around and to build a technological curriculum that will benefit students and educators.
This site was built with a great deal of help from Joyce Jordan. Thank you Joyce
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