Two issues shaping the role of technology in education are the standards movement and reliance on internet and distance education. The standards movement requires that students are advanced or proficient on state tests. Because of the pressure of testing, teachers are looking for every possible way to raise test scores. The standards movement may lead to teachers using technology to raise test scores. At my school, we are already using Reading Assistant, a computer-based reading program, to help our struggling readers and improve test scores. Internet and distance learning also shapes the role of technology in education. Distance learning is becoming extremely popular in high school and college. However, many students can handle online course and dropout.
One issue that remains a problem in educational technology is the Digital Divide. Although more and more children are being exposed to technology at an early age, children from low-income families are not getting this exposure. They also do not have access to much technology after school
Hi Kelly,
ReplyDeleteAt our school we are using SuccessMaker Math and Reading in hopes that it will help our students test scores increase. Each teacher is required to have a least two times a week in the computer lab working on this program. I definitly feel that technology is a good way to help increase test scores.
-Jocelyn
I agree that the Digital Divide is holding back our underpriviledged students. The good thing is that some schools and communities are doing all they can to help out those students. For example, our afterschool program has been relocated to the media center where 30 computers are available for student use. This program allows students to stay after school until 5:30 for a very small fee per semester. Our public library also works very closely with the schools and provide the same resources at their location after school hours. I think that we may be able to close that divide if we continue to have more community support.
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