Districts throughout the country spend billions of dollars each year on technology: hardware, software, network infrastructure, Web-based services, professional development. Is the expenditure worth it? Why or why not?
I think that the expediture is definitely worth it. Technology should no longer be looked at as optional. It should be mandatory in all schools. Technology is quickly taking over all former means of communication in our society; therefore we need to make sure we are keeping our students up to date on the latest technology.
I definitely agree with Jennifer. We live in a digital age. This is the easiest way to communicate with our students. Technology is the only thing that most kids of this day and age respond to in a positive manner. The problem is we need to use technology to teach proper communication and better writing skills. (LOL) DO u understand what I trying 2 say? It is always comical to see the previous statement in a formal paper from a student or even an email from a parent. I know this is off topic but this is the main problem our technology is perpetuating. Maybe it not a technolgy problem. Are we as a society allowing this informal communication because it has a digital signature?
I certainly agree with the first two posts. However, I have seen technology used simply for the sake of categorizing activities for 'technology integration' as opposed to being used for authentic learning purposes. In some cases, it is hard to justify spending tons of money on sophisticated systems of technology when they are being used almost exclusively for basic functions. There are so many learning opportunities that technology affords educators & students if only we commit to continually learning how to provide meaningful, authentic opportunities for students to use it.
I agree, Leslie. I have seen too many things bought only to be tossed a few years later when no longer helpful. When my school first opened, they bought laptops for every teacher. Sounded great,even though it was expensive (and I do agree for example that every teacher should be supplied with a fairly updated computer) but these were quickly outdated, and hard to keep maintained for some reason and in 6 years, no one was using them anymore. Seems a waste. So certain kinds of technology are crucial, but we need to think ahead and make decisions carefully. I think it would be a good idea to list all the things any given item will enable us to do that we can't do now and see if it is worth it. Everything has a trade off, so we need to consider also what we are losing in making the decision as well. Teachers lost much time in trying to use that program that was supposed to churn out common assessments, and atlas curriculum mapping too. Now no one even thinks of keeping up with those in my dept. Finally, we need to consider maintenance. Our school kept investing in new technologies when they weren't able to support the ones we already had. We have one tech specialist. We need to consider that when investing in technology as well--can we keep it going?
This summer I heard a talk by a former manager at Cisco who now heads MCNC (www.ncren.net). He basically said that the technology that we have in schools (and on which "billions of dollars" is spent) is pathetic. I'm inclined to agree. One example he cited was the number of times that a school's or district's network "goes down" This would be unthinkable in the business world. At Cisco, SAS, Google, Oracle, etc., the network NEVER GOES DOWN. Why is this disparity acceptable?
The expenditure is worth it if the technology is effectively integrated into the curriculum. This requires a lot of preparation and professional development. It also requires overcoming the hurdle of getting comfortable with the technology and using it effectively. Judi Harris' two questions are good guidelines to consider when using technology: 1)Does the technology enable us to do something we couldn't do before and 2) Does the technology enable us to do something we could do before, but better?. If it fits one of those conditions and will help students learn, then it is important to keep school up-to-date on technology.
Robin, your situation with the laptops was unfortunate. It does seem wasteful. Your laptop issues reminded me of an interesting article/reflection at Rethinking Schools. The article brings a lot of important issues to the surface.
You know, one issue I have with increasing technology in education is that I question the motives of those pushing that technology into schools. More computers purchased means more service warranties, more IT techs in the district and on-site, more service calls, more bandwidth needed, more software purchased, more servers needed, more T1 lines running to the school, and more educational technology "gurus" hired to show teachers how to use Wikis to teach (with little evidence to show that it increases student achievement). All of this benefits the companies and individuals who provide the goods and services listed above and leads me to assume that self-interest is a primary motivation of theirs. More such arguments can be found in the book High Tech Heretic .
I love having technology in the classroom especially when it allows students and teachers to be creative and innovative. It is necessary for students to be exposed to the different types of technology that they will have to use when they move to college or find employment. However, you can not use technology all the time and forget that the students still have the traditional testing practices that are paper and pencils that they have to do.
Over the last several years I have heard many of my colleagues make the commit “my kids are not responding to technology.” Then, as I talk with the teacher I find that every lesson plan is implemented through PowerPoint. This is no different than notes on a chalkboard or on a overhead projector. I feel money needs to be allocated for better integration of technology in the classroom. Many systems give the teacher a computer, LCD projector or a Smart Board. When in actuality teachers should be taught how to teach their students to apply technology towards their learning. For example, children should be taught how to use and make webquests and other applications of technology, not just use technology for typing a paper on a word document or just creating a PowerPoint.
I checked out the link to the book you referenced, Greg, and it sounds like some of the same notions in the book are echoing in this blog. So far, most of our posts have been looking at the technology piece in terms of teaching tools. When you think about the components of the infrastructure, though, a large portion is actually used to enhance different components of the educators' jobs . . . communication, grading (scantrons and the like), assessment banks, NCWISE & in-county databases, HR systems, staff development databases, online SIP, blackboard, etc.
I read an underlying current of skepticism through your comments. I will be interested to hear what you think of the article by Christensen and Horn and the video of Clay Shirky.
I also like Leslie's point: technology's impact in eduction is not confined to the teaching/learning dynamic in the classroom, but stretches into many of the back-end processes that underlie K-12 education (communication, data management, financial transactions, facilities work orders, etc.). One of the activities we will complete in class is to put together a list of all the ways in which technology is used in schools.
Another interesting point that Robin brings up is something called TCO -- total cost of ownership. For example, how much does it really cost when you decide to buy laptops for all your teachers? Total cost of ownership is a way of thinking about all of the costs that go beyond a simple hardware price tag: maintenance, warranties, professional development, network improvements, security, etc.
As most of the previous posts have stated, technology is definitely an investment worth making IF our schools are committed to the integration of technology into the curriculum, providing professional development for teachers AND ensuring that our technology capabilities keep up with the changing demands of the rest of the world. It is unthinkable to consider growing "21st Century Students" without the use of technology but it is also unthinkable to consider dvd players, digital cameras and email good uses of technology in 21st century classrooms.
I think the expenditure on technology is well worth it. In order to compete in a global economy, our students must develop the ability to use technology for communication, transaction, and research purposes. Through personal research and presenting teacher workshops on globalization, I have reached the conclusion that two of the greatest gifts we can give students are a love of learning and the ability to use technology as a tool to selling their ideas. My brother is a prime example of a "winner" in globalization. He works at a company that uses the Internet to sell sports memorabilia around the world. The company only employs two people. It is an example of taking an idea and, through technology, making a fortune.
Currently, we do a pretty good job of teaching computer skills and programs like Microsoft Word and Excel. We need to add more emphasis in the curriculum to internet research and using the internet as a tool for life long learning, especially given the fact that our students will hold several different jobs over their lifetime.
One thing that I have always wondered about was why districts don't share their access to a large number of technological devices, which they buy in huge numbers, to the teachers and staff? If a person working in a school system wants to buy a computer, and the school system is spending money to equip their schools with updated systems, why don't they extend the offer to their staff? It seems that a 'discount rate' would be negotiable if you buy in mass quantities, and they could pass the saving on... that way the teachers would save money on their own systems if they chose to buy, but the school would not have to house the expense of buying all teachers laptops. Just a thought.
Anyways, I do believe that technology offers opportunity to engage learners in different ways. Teaching them how to use Power Point or Word, for example, isn't necessarily going to make them better writers, but it does offer them a different platform for expressing themselves. Some of the technologoies we are seeing, however, will stay with us for a long time - think about the overhead projector, for example. It wasn't too different from writing on the board, but it allowed us to look at the kids while we wrote. In the same way, the Smart Board is allowing us to not only look at the kids, but to project work immediately for the class to see. It has become an 'interactive chalkboard' which streamlines the way we use visual information to teach. I think it will be around for a long time and truly enhances engagement and learning in the classroom.
Technology benefits the teachers besides just the students. Because of technology, my school is able to receive NC EOC scores hours after the students have taken it. This allows quick turn around time for remediation with the students and focus on how far they missed passing the test (by one standard or two standards levels) which can then be used to guide that remediation. Also technology has help speed up the process of completing observations. Instead of handwriting everything, we use palm pilots and laptops to record our findings, not to mention we can easily talk to parents through email versus phone conversations since many of them are in conferences or out of the office and only have email access during the day.
I forgot... we also use technology to get our substitutes if we need to be out. You can go online and enter a username and password, input when you are going to be absent, and the computer system will call subs from a master list and confirms with them. You do not have to worry about contacting your school and the days absent are calculated electronically. Also I LOVE having my paycheck electronically direct deposited from the school system. It is always in by midnight on the day we are to get paid.
Brad, great observation about just using PowerPoint and not connecting with students. I think to some it seems so overwhelming to try to integrate technology that it takes an immediate back-burner to other pressing issues (whatever they may be). Perhaps a focus on quality of technology instruction rather than quantity is key. Principals might encourage staff, for example, to provide one small group a week with quality learning activities through technology rather than every lesson being on PowerPoint. Also, curious if anyone has ever been asked to review or preview technological software or hardware before it is adopted? What was the process like?
Jennifer- Since you started the conversation and used the word mandatory I thought you might find this blog entry and comments from a group of elementary teachers interesting. The question that I posed was, "Is it okay to be technology illiterate?". http://techinnc.wordpress.com/2008/08/13/technology-literacy/
Brad- You bring up an interesting point around communication style. Can you suggest some ways that we might help students use proper communication in the correct settings?
Robin- Do you think the investment in laptops helped make teachers more technology literate?
Greg- I would be interested in hearing some of your experiences with technology in the classroom. I tend to agree with you that a lot of things we push into the classroom don't bring us any closer to the goal of 21st Century learning environments.
Brad- How would a Smart Board increase student use of technology?
That's it for now. I look forward to working with all of you on Thursday.
BTW- how many of you aggregate this blog into your RSS reader?
I agree that the functionality of technology has benefited students, staff and families but is it really worth the money spent to be able to have a computerized system call a list of substitues? I don't know, I'm just throwing it out there. I agree that direct deposit is convenient but how does it benefit students. Where else could this money be used? Don't you generally have an idea of the students who will need remediation before you recieve test scores? How could we use the money spent on that system to directly benefit students? I guess I wonder if the money spent on the "technology" we use could be better spent on things that directly affect our students. In my opinion, spending money on student laptops is very different from spending money to create an automatic sub caller.
To clarify...my school system has every type of technology you can imagine. Besides the things mentioned above to ease teachers life such as a substitute calling system (and believe me you need one when mass people will be at a conference at the same day and time, such as on Monday when all history teachers in the district will be gone...14 for my department alone times 7 schools), at my school alone teachers have individual laptops and LCDs with mounted speakers, TV/VCR, DVD players, three to five student computers in every classroom, scanners for easy access to making common assessment tests in which we do not have to grade, smartboards, and the clickers that each student can check out to answer questions individually that the computer calcuates for the teacher to see who knows information or not as well as 7 computer labs including 4 wireless and computers for students to take home for the four years they are in high school as well internet service if their parents can not afford it at home. For administrators there are palm pilots where observations are to be used for observations. In order to have 21st century students who are ready to be successful in the world of technology we also have to have 21st century teachers that are exposed to different types of technology and are willing to use it in a variety of ways.
adam, how do you aggregate a blog into an Rss? Why would you? I think there are a lot of things out there I don't know that could help me. I would really like to put up family pictures like Greg, for example!
This blog reminds me of a book I need to re-read on the subject of technology that was fascinating, and very philosophical. It was by Albert Borghman(?) and, if I remember correctly, it was about how technology can distract us from the important things we should be focusing on as human beings. Technology should never be a focus in itself, but only a means to a good end. Of course, there are many good ends to use it for, too.
I love technology. Even though at times it can be crazy frustrating. I am lucky enough to be at a school that leads the pack in my district when it comes to technology. We are taught how to use it and every year it seems to build on itself. We use it to get our subs, to call parents, to post grades, to talk to our kids, to teach and most recently we just got the ability to give every student an email account that they can use at school and we can monitor. If used properly technology is wekk worth the price we pay.
Christian, after reading your comment, I began to think about the implications of not spending as much money on technolgy in our schools. I believe this would only increase the gap between the "haves" and the "have nots" in our society. Computer skills and technology "awareness" are becoming basic requirements to obtain most good jobs. We must continue to fund technology instruction in our schools in order to provide students equality of opportunity in the job market. High school is the last time that many students will have access to state of the art technology and guided instruction. As educators, we must take advantage of this opportunity to provide students with as many 21st century skills as possible.
Brad, I agree with your ideas about emphasizing application of technology. It is vitally important that we show children how technology can be used to their advantage in the future. Any student in the world can take an idea or a dream and make it a reality through technology. There is a TV show that comes on CNBC every night called "The Big Idea" with Donny Deutsch. Many of these successful people have used technology as a tool to make millions. Technology allows you to communicate around the world, and it allows you to sell products around the world if you know how to use it.
One of the issues that I have seen surrounding technology is the lack of teacher training in its use. Technology is growing and changing faster than we can keep up with it. I've even worked with school personnel that don't know how to turn on a computer! I don't think that it is fair to push teachers to integrate technology into their classrooms if we don't give them proper training first. I know training cost money, but it is a necessary expense.
I agree with Martin's comment that technology can be effectively if it is properly intergrated into the curriculum. I think it is not effective now because there is no plan for its present or future use. Teacher's who are resistant to this technological shift may be apprehensive for good reason... how are teachers trained to incorporate technology into their cirriculum. I must admit, it took me a few hours to post some of my comments because I don't use blog sites. (I think I saw repeats of some passwords!!) It was absolutely frustrating to repeatedly and unsuccessfully attempt something that should be so simple... because it's the 'new thing'. And this is a change that is being forced onto some teachers, so of course there will be a negative atmosphere about its use and usefulness. What do you guys think about employing computer/program specialists to come into the school and assist students with group projects (or something?) to take pressure off of teachers who are not comfortable with this medium. If the money is going to be spent on the equipment and warranties, shouldn't some financies be put towards its proper use to receive the full benefit of the investment?
PS. Wish me luck with the posting of these comments!! lol
I must agree with those of you who value technology education. Being technologically literate is a 21st century skill, and it's not going away, so I think that we are all going to have to embrace change and get on board. Take the skill of typing, which used to be solely for office training but is now a prerequisite to most of the new technology out there - and so the skills of downloading, creating spreadsheets & charts, blogging, web page design, using video conferencing, etc. will become necessary for common tasks in many of the jobs for which our students will apply. Agreeably this task orientation must accompany educational goals. Blogging, for example, requires me to connect to the internet, read, type on a keyboard, think & respond, develop a critical stance, write & communicate effectively, and ask questions - all excellent educational opportunities!
Honestly, one of the things that surprised me when I went to an elementary school here for the first time two weeks ago, was the technological infrastructure. I was amazed by the things I saw. There were definitely at least four computers in the classroom, and there was a high tech computer lab. Also, in the Middle school I visited, there was a COW system, and that stood for, Computers On Wheels. Laptops were placed in a wheeled storage box and could easily be transported from classroom to classroom. Teachers used a booking system for the COW. Everything today is based on computers. Computer literacy is as important as normal literacy. Everything will at some point be replaced by the Internet. Today, many things can save time and money if completed online. Providing education for the 21st century goes through computers.
Working in a Title I school, we are so fortunate to have been awarded a grant that put SmartBoards in every classroom. They are great and the kids love them. The only drawback is the training involved, which can be overwhelming to several teachers that are not used to it. In our school there only seems to be one person that understands it all and the rest of us can perform bits and pieces. The other drawback is, today is perfect example, that if you have several lessons planned in one day using the computers or SmartBoard and the system in the county goes down, you are left to scramble with backup lesson plans.
I am a believer in using as much technology as possible, hands-on with the students. If technology is used within schools, it (in my opinion) should benefit the students, not the school for saying they have it to offer. I agree with Greg regarding the money wasted. Our warranties for our color printers ran out and though we have these great resources, we cannot afford to keep them running. Heaven forbid I run out of blue ink in the printer because I do not have the $300 to replace it nor does my school. Furthermore, I overheard our media specialist talking about seeing if she could sell cartridges from the printers we no longer have (since the contract ran out) on EBay in order to fund the new ones. A shame time is even wasted on maintaining resources that we expect when we acquire these items in the first place. We overlooked what keeps technology available.
Any one remember there's this little thing in th 8th grade called the computer skills test? I'm getting ready to lose weeks out of my class time so I can make sure my students are ready for this test. You better believe I'm glad my students have the access to technology that they have. With that access, I do not feel as much pressure on getting them ready for this test. This test that the state thinks is important. So, yes I think its worth all the money my school district is putting into technology from elementary school up. Its a technology based world and they need to be ready for it. If it takes money to get them ready, then I'm okay with spending it.
As everyone has said, technology is extremely important in schools. I don't think that any teacher can get away from not trying to incorporate technology in their lessons. In reality, lessons call for it. Students are so "tech savvy" then why can't teachers be? I believe that when money is spent on technology it is a sign that we are accepting the inevitable. Computers are here to stay. With NCLB, I believe that we need technology to reach students where chalkboard and desks can't. Technology, when used in the correct way, can be a powerful tool.
Christian, I have to disagree with you. Having automated sub-system effects the students more than it does the teachers. For so long Durham County has struggled with getting subs for their schools. Secretaries, principals, APs spend hours on the phone, trying to track down someone to come to school and take over a class. During that time, other tasks that need to be done, may get put on the backburner ie: checking student attendance, monitoring highways, dealing with student confrontation, just to name a few. Having a system that runs itself is in itself, a lifesaver. I think an automated sub system shows another advancement of technolgy. We have computer that free up people to do other jobs that may be of a greater importance.
Bonita, I think most schools have a Computer Tech that you are referring to, however in most schools there is only one, so maybe schools could use technolgy money to increase the number of Techs to help more teachers.
Wow, I remember twenty years ago when I had to calculate grades for 120 students by hand! For that reason alone, I believe technology integration is essential to aligning schools with the demands of the 21st century. I agree with earlier comments that technology frees teachers to devote more energy to meaningful pursuits such as curriculum development, (including tech integration)intervention,and partnerships with families.
Back when I was teaching high school, and we each got a new computer for our classroom, a "tech" was hired to teach us basic computer management at inservices, and to consult on an as needed basis. With all staff learning together, staff members who were not computer savvy could remain in their comfort zone. This is an example of facilitating healthy buy-in for change.
Were I a principal, I would also consider recruiting one staff member from each department for "intense" computer training, which they can disseminate to their colleagues in their department.
I think they should have a teacher come in that only deals with computer development. They would plan the classes, like the art, music, and gym teachers. We don't expect for class room teachers to be proficient enough in art to teach the children to make sculptures or draw in 3-d; however, they can give the kids homework assignments to use their artistic skills. Why do we expect teachers who have little computer background to be able to teach children 21st century computer skills. The computer specialist could show the kids how to do power points and make spread sheets or whatever, and the teacher design projects around what the children have been taught. The kids can also go to the computer specialist when they have more difficult questions and know they will get answers. This would take some burden off of the teachers while ensuring the students get the skills they need.
It's true that a huge problem is created if teachers do not cope up with th e technological advancement. Credit to Ryan's mother, this is a case of re-think, re-do, or otherwise just wait till you re-tire. what happens though with every child that will not be able to use a computer because of the previous teacher who couldn't teach that. Also, the educational system of every place must keep up with the technological advancements as well. For example, I was learning how to use Windows 3:11 (remember those) in school, when Windows 95 were already in use, and had them on my computer back home. The reason for that was that the ministry did not spend the money to technologically upgrade software in schools that year.
36 comments:
I think that the expediture is definitely worth it. Technology should no longer be looked at as optional. It should be mandatory in all schools. Technology is quickly taking over all former means of communication in our society; therefore we need to make sure we are keeping our students up to date on the latest technology.
I definitely agree with Jennifer. We live in a digital age. This is the easiest way to communicate with our students. Technology is the only thing that most kids of this day and age respond to in a positive manner. The problem is we need to use technology to teach proper communication and better writing skills. (LOL) DO u understand what I trying 2 say? It is always comical to see the previous statement in a formal paper from a student or even an email from a parent. I know this is off topic but this is the main problem our technology is perpetuating. Maybe it not a technolgy problem. Are we as a society allowing this informal communication because it has a digital signature?
I certainly agree with the first two posts. However, I have seen technology used simply for the sake of categorizing activities for 'technology integration' as opposed to being used for authentic learning purposes. In some cases, it is hard to justify spending tons of money on sophisticated systems of technology when they are being used almost exclusively for basic functions. There are so many learning opportunities that technology affords educators & students if only we commit to continually learning how to provide meaningful, authentic opportunities for students to use it.
I agree, Leslie. I have seen too many things bought only to be tossed a few years later when no longer helpful. When my school first opened, they bought laptops for every teacher. Sounded great,even though it was expensive (and I do agree for example that every teacher should be supplied with a fairly updated computer) but these were quickly outdated, and hard to keep maintained for some reason and in 6 years, no one was using them anymore. Seems a waste.
So certain kinds of technology are crucial, but we need to think ahead and make decisions carefully. I think it would be a good idea to list all the things any given item will enable us to do that we can't do now and see if it is worth it. Everything has a trade off, so we need to consider also what we are losing in making the decision as well. Teachers lost much time in trying to use that program that was supposed to churn out common assessments, and atlas curriculum mapping too. Now no one even thinks of keeping up with those in my dept. Finally, we need to consider maintenance. Our school kept investing in new technologies when they weren't able to support the ones we already had. We have one tech specialist. We need to consider that when investing in technology as well--can we keep it going?
This summer I heard a talk by a former manager at Cisco who now heads MCNC (www.ncren.net). He basically said that the technology that we have in schools (and on which "billions of dollars" is spent) is pathetic. I'm inclined to agree. One example he cited was the number of times that a school's or district's network "goes down" This would be unthinkable in the business world. At Cisco, SAS, Google, Oracle, etc., the network NEVER GOES DOWN. Why is this disparity acceptable?
The expenditure is worth it if the technology is effectively integrated into the curriculum. This requires a lot of preparation and professional development. It also requires overcoming the hurdle of getting comfortable with the technology and using it effectively. Judi Harris' two questions are good guidelines to consider when using technology: 1)Does the technology enable us to do something we couldn't do before and 2) Does the technology enable us to do something we could do before, but better?. If it fits one of those conditions and will help students learn, then it is important to keep school up-to-date on technology.
Robin, your situation with the laptops was unfortunate. It does seem wasteful. Your laptop issues reminded me of an interesting article/reflection at Rethinking Schools. The article brings a lot of important issues to the surface.
You know, one issue I have with increasing technology in education is that I question the motives of those pushing that technology into schools. More computers purchased means more service warranties, more IT techs in the district and on-site, more service calls, more bandwidth needed, more software purchased, more servers needed, more T1 lines running to the school, and more educational technology "gurus" hired to show teachers how to use Wikis to teach (with little evidence to show that it increases student achievement). All of this benefits the companies and individuals who provide the goods and services listed above and leads me to assume that self-interest is a primary motivation of theirs. More such arguments can be found in the book High Tech Heretic .
I love having technology in the classroom especially when it allows students and teachers to be creative and innovative. It is necessary for students to be exposed to the different types of technology that they will have to use when they move to college or find employment. However, you can not use technology all the time and forget that the students still have the traditional testing practices that are paper and pencils that they have to do.
Over the last several years I have heard many of my colleagues make the commit “my kids are not responding to technology.” Then, as I talk with the teacher I find that every lesson plan is implemented through PowerPoint. This is no different than notes on a chalkboard or on a overhead projector. I feel money needs to be allocated for better integration of technology in the classroom. Many systems give the teacher a computer, LCD projector or a Smart Board. When in actuality teachers should be taught how to teach their students to apply technology towards their learning. For example, children should be taught how to use and make webquests and other applications of technology, not just use technology for typing a paper on a word document or just creating a PowerPoint.
I checked out the link to the book you referenced, Greg, and it sounds like some of the same notions in the book are echoing in this blog.
So far, most of our posts have been looking at the technology piece in terms of teaching tools. When you think about the components of the infrastructure, though, a large portion is actually used to enhance different components of the educators' jobs . . . communication, grading (scantrons and the like), assessment banks, NCWISE & in-county databases, HR systems, staff development databases, online SIP, blackboard, etc.
I read an underlying current of skepticism through your comments. I will be interested to hear what you think of the article by Christensen and Horn and the video of Clay Shirky.
I also like Leslie's point: technology's impact in eduction is not confined to the teaching/learning dynamic in the classroom, but stretches into many of the back-end processes that underlie K-12 education (communication, data management, financial transactions, facilities work orders, etc.). One of the activities we will complete in class is to put together a list of all the ways in which technology is used in schools.
Another interesting point that Robin brings up is something called TCO -- total cost of ownership. For example, how much does it really cost when you decide to buy laptops for all your teachers? Total cost of ownership is a way of thinking about all of the costs that go beyond a simple hardware price tag: maintenance, warranties, professional development, network improvements, security, etc.
Good stuff!
As most of the previous posts have stated, technology is definitely an investment worth making IF our schools are committed to the integration of technology into the curriculum, providing professional development for teachers AND ensuring that our technology capabilities keep up with the changing demands of the rest of the world. It is unthinkable to consider growing "21st Century Students" without the use of technology but it is also unthinkable to consider dvd players, digital cameras and email good uses of technology in 21st century classrooms.
I think the expenditure on technology is well worth it. In order to compete in a global economy, our students must develop the ability to use technology for communication, transaction, and research purposes. Through personal research and presenting teacher workshops on globalization, I have reached the conclusion that two of the greatest gifts we can give students are a love of learning and the ability to use technology as a tool to selling their ideas. My brother is a prime example of a "winner" in globalization. He works at a company that uses the Internet to sell sports memorabilia around the world. The company only employs two people. It is an example of taking an idea and, through technology, making a fortune.
Currently, we do a pretty good job of teaching computer skills and programs like Microsoft Word and Excel. We need to add more emphasis in the curriculum to internet research and using the internet as a tool for life long learning, especially given the fact that our students will hold several different jobs over their lifetime.
One thing that I have always wondered about was why districts don't share their access to a large number of technological devices, which they buy in huge numbers, to the teachers and staff? If a person working in a school system wants to buy a computer, and the school system is spending money to equip their schools with updated systems, why don't they extend the offer to their staff? It seems that a 'discount rate' would be negotiable if you buy in mass quantities, and they could pass the saving on... that way the teachers would save money on their own systems if they chose to buy, but the school would not have to house the expense of buying all teachers laptops. Just a thought.
Anyways, I do believe that technology offers opportunity to engage learners in different ways. Teaching them how to use Power Point or Word, for example, isn't necessarily going to make them better writers, but it does offer them a different platform for expressing themselves. Some of the technologoies we are seeing, however, will stay with us for a long time - think about the overhead projector, for example. It wasn't too different from writing on the board, but it allowed us to look at the kids while we wrote. In the same way, the Smart Board is allowing us to not only look at the kids, but to project work immediately for the class to see. It has become an 'interactive chalkboard' which streamlines the way we use visual information to teach. I think it will be around for a long time and truly enhances engagement and learning in the classroom.
Technology benefits the teachers besides just the students. Because of technology, my school is able to receive NC EOC scores hours after the students have taken it. This allows quick turn around time for remediation with the students and focus on how far they missed passing the test (by one standard or two standards levels) which can then be used to guide that remediation.
Also technology has help speed up the process of completing observations. Instead of handwriting everything, we use palm pilots and laptops to record our findings, not to mention we can easily talk to parents through email versus phone conversations since many of them are in conferences or out of the office and only have email access during the day.
I forgot... we also use technology to get our substitutes if we need to be out. You can go online and enter a username and password, input when you are going to be absent, and the computer system will call subs from a master list and confirms with them. You do not have to worry about contacting your school and the days absent are calculated electronically. Also I LOVE having my paycheck electronically direct deposited from the school system. It is always in by midnight on the day we are to get paid.
Brad, great observation about just using PowerPoint and not connecting with students. I think to some it seems so overwhelming to try to integrate technology that it takes an immediate back-burner to other pressing issues (whatever they may be). Perhaps a focus on quality of technology instruction rather than quantity is key. Principals might encourage staff, for example, to provide one small group a week with quality learning activities through technology rather than every lesson being on PowerPoint. Also, curious if anyone has ever been asked to review or preview technological software or hardware before it is adopted? What was the process like?
Jennifer- Since you started the conversation and used the word mandatory I thought you might find this blog entry and comments from a group of elementary teachers interesting. The question that I posed was, "Is it okay to be technology illiterate?". http://techinnc.wordpress.com/2008/08/13/technology-literacy/
Brad- You bring up an interesting point around communication style. Can you suggest some ways that we might help students use proper communication in the correct settings?
Robin- Do you think the investment in laptops helped make teachers more technology literate?
Greg- I would be interested in hearing some of your experiences with technology in the classroom. I tend to agree with you that a lot of things we push into the classroom don't bring us any closer to the goal of 21st Century learning environments.
Brad- How would a Smart Board increase student use of technology?
That's it for now. I look forward to working with all of you on Thursday.
BTW- how many of you aggregate this blog into your RSS reader?
I agree that the functionality of technology has benefited students, staff and families but is it really worth the money spent to be able to have a computerized system call a list of substitues? I don't know, I'm just throwing it out there. I agree that direct deposit is convenient but how does it benefit students. Where else could this money be used? Don't you generally have an idea of the students who will need remediation before you recieve test scores? How could we use the money spent on that system to directly benefit students? I guess I wonder if the money spent on the "technology" we use could be better spent on things that directly affect our students. In my opinion, spending money on student laptops is very different from spending money to create an automatic sub caller.
To clarify...my school system has every type of technology you can imagine. Besides the things mentioned above to ease teachers life such as a substitute calling system (and believe me you need one when mass people will be at a conference at the same day and time, such as on Monday when all history teachers in the district will be gone...14 for my department alone times 7 schools), at my school alone teachers have individual laptops and LCDs with mounted speakers, TV/VCR, DVD players, three to five student computers in every classroom, scanners for easy access to making common assessment tests in which we do not have to grade, smartboards, and the clickers that each student can check out to answer questions individually that the computer calcuates for the teacher to see who knows information or not as well as 7 computer labs including 4 wireless and computers for students to take home for the four years they are in high school as well internet service if their parents can not afford it at home. For administrators there are palm pilots where observations are to be used for observations. In order to have 21st century students who are ready to be successful in the world of technology we also have to have 21st century teachers that are exposed to different types of technology and are willing to use it in a variety of ways.
adam,
how do you aggregate a blog into an Rss? Why would you? I think there are a lot of things out there I don't know that could help me. I would really like to put up family pictures like Greg, for example!
This blog reminds me of a book I need to re-read on the subject of technology that was fascinating, and very philosophical. It was by Albert Borghman(?) and, if I remember correctly, it was about how technology can distract us from the important things we should be focusing on as human beings. Technology should never be a focus in itself, but only a means to a good end. Of course, there are many good ends to use it for, too.
I love technology. Even though at times it can be crazy frustrating. I am lucky enough to be at a school that leads the pack in my district when it comes to technology. We are taught how to use it and every year it seems to build on itself. We use it to get our subs, to call parents, to post grades, to talk to our kids, to teach and most recently we just got the ability to give every student an email account that they can use at school and we can monitor. If used properly technology is wekk worth the price we pay.
Christian, after reading your comment, I began to think about the implications of not spending as much money on technolgy in our schools. I believe this would only increase the gap between the "haves" and the "have nots" in our society. Computer skills and technology "awareness" are becoming basic requirements to obtain most good jobs. We must continue to fund technology instruction in our schools in order to provide students equality of opportunity in the job market. High school is the last time that many students will have access to state of the art technology and guided instruction. As educators, we must take advantage of this opportunity to provide students with as many 21st century skills as possible.
Brad, I agree with your ideas about emphasizing application of technology. It is vitally important that we show children how technology can be used to their advantage in the future. Any student in the world can take an idea or a dream and make it a reality through technology. There is a TV show that comes on CNBC every night called "The Big Idea" with Donny Deutsch. Many of these successful people have used technology as a tool to make millions. Technology allows you to communicate around the world, and it allows you to sell products around the world if you know how to use it.
One of the issues that I have seen surrounding technology is the lack of teacher training in its use. Technology is growing and changing faster than we can keep up with it. I've even worked with school personnel that don't know how to turn on a computer! I don't think that it is fair to push teachers to integrate technology into their classrooms if we don't give them proper training first. I know training cost money, but it is a necessary expense.
I agree with Martin's comment that technology can be effectively if it is properly intergrated into the curriculum. I think it is not effective now because there is no plan for its present or future use. Teacher's who are resistant to this technological shift may be apprehensive for good reason... how are teachers trained to incorporate technology into their cirriculum. I must admit, it took me a few hours to post some of my comments because I don't use blog sites. (I think I saw repeats of some passwords!!) It was absolutely frustrating to repeatedly and unsuccessfully attempt something that should be so simple... because it's the 'new thing'. And this is a change that is being forced onto some teachers, so of course there will be a negative atmosphere about its use and usefulness.
What do you guys think about employing computer/program specialists to come into the school and assist students with group projects (or something?) to take pressure off of teachers who are not comfortable with this medium. If the money is going to be spent on the equipment and warranties, shouldn't some financies be put towards its proper use to receive the full benefit of the investment?
PS. Wish me luck with the posting of these comments!! lol
I must agree with those of you who value technology education. Being technologically literate is a 21st century skill, and it's not going away, so I think that we are all going to have to embrace change and get on board. Take the skill of typing, which used to be solely for office training but is now a prerequisite to most of the new technology out there - and so the skills of downloading, creating spreadsheets & charts, blogging, web page design, using video conferencing, etc. will become necessary for common tasks in many of the jobs for which our students will apply. Agreeably this task orientation must accompany educational goals. Blogging, for example, requires me to connect to the internet, read, type on a keyboard, think & respond, develop a critical stance, write & communicate effectively, and ask questions - all excellent educational opportunities!
Honestly, one of the things that surprised me when I went to an elementary school here for the first time two weeks ago, was the technological infrastructure. I was amazed by the things I saw. There were definitely at least four computers in the classroom, and there was a high tech computer lab. Also, in the Middle school I visited, there was a COW system, and that stood for, Computers On Wheels. Laptops were placed in a wheeled storage box and could easily be transported from classroom to classroom. Teachers used a booking system for the COW. Everything today is based on computers. Computer literacy is as important as normal literacy. Everything will at some point be replaced by the Internet. Today, many things can save time and money if completed online. Providing education for the 21st century goes through computers.
Working in a Title I school, we are so fortunate to have been awarded a grant that put SmartBoards in every classroom. They are great and the kids love them. The only drawback is the training involved, which can be overwhelming to several teachers that are not used to it. In our school there only seems to be one person that understands it all and the rest of us can perform bits and pieces. The other drawback is, today is perfect example, that if you have several lessons planned in one day using the computers or SmartBoard and the system in the county goes down, you are left to scramble with backup lesson plans.
I am a believer in using as much technology as possible, hands-on with the students. If technology is used within schools, it (in my opinion) should benefit the students, not the school for saying they have it to offer.
I agree with Greg regarding the money wasted. Our warranties for our color printers ran out and though we have these great resources, we cannot afford to keep them running. Heaven forbid I run out of blue ink in the printer because I do not have the $300 to replace it nor does my school.
Furthermore, I overheard our media specialist talking about seeing if she could sell cartridges from the printers we no longer have (since the contract ran out) on EBay in order to fund the new ones. A shame time is even wasted on maintaining resources that we expect when we acquire these items in the first place. We overlooked what keeps technology available.
Any one remember there's this little thing in th 8th grade called the computer skills test? I'm getting ready to lose weeks out of my class time so I can make sure my students are ready for this test. You better believe I'm glad my students have the access to technology that they have. With that access, I do not feel as much pressure on getting them ready for this test. This test that the state thinks is important. So, yes I think its worth all the money my school district is putting into technology from elementary school up. Its a technology based world and they need to be ready for it. If it takes money to get them ready, then I'm okay with spending it.
As everyone has said, technology is extremely important in schools. I don't think that any teacher can get away from not trying to incorporate technology in their lessons. In reality, lessons call for it. Students are so "tech savvy" then why can't teachers be? I believe that when money is spent on technology it is a sign that we are accepting the inevitable. Computers are here to stay. With NCLB, I believe that we need technology to reach students where chalkboard and desks can't. Technology, when used in the correct way, can be a powerful tool.
Christian, I have to disagree with you. Having automated sub-system effects the students more than it does the teachers. For so long Durham County has struggled with getting subs for their schools. Secretaries, principals, APs spend hours on the phone, trying to track down someone to come to school and take over a class. During that time, other tasks that need to be done, may get put on the backburner ie: checking student attendance, monitoring highways, dealing with student confrontation, just to name a few. Having a system that runs itself is in itself, a lifesaver. I think an automated sub system shows another advancement of technolgy. We have computer that free up people to do other jobs that may be of a greater importance.
Bonita, I think most schools have a Computer Tech that you are referring to, however in most schools there is only one, so maybe schools could use technolgy money to increase the number of Techs to help more teachers.
Wow, I remember twenty years ago when I had to calculate grades for 120 students by hand! For that reason alone, I believe technology integration is essential to aligning schools with the demands of the 21st century. I agree with earlier comments that technology frees teachers to devote more energy to meaningful pursuits such as curriculum development, (including tech integration)intervention,and partnerships with families.
Back when I was teaching high school, and we each got a new computer for our classroom, a "tech" was hired to teach us basic computer management at inservices, and to consult on an as needed basis. With all staff learning together, staff members who were not computer savvy could remain in their comfort zone. This is an example of facilitating healthy buy-in for change.
Were I a principal, I would also consider recruiting one staff member from each department for "intense" computer training, which they can disseminate to their colleagues in their department.
I think they should have a teacher come in that only deals with computer development. They would plan the classes, like the art, music, and gym teachers. We don't expect for class room teachers to be proficient enough in art to teach the children to make sculptures or draw in 3-d; however, they can give the kids homework assignments to use their artistic skills. Why do we expect teachers who have little computer background to be able to teach children 21st century computer skills.
The computer specialist could show the kids how to do power points and make spread sheets or whatever, and the teacher design projects around what the children have been taught. The kids can also go to the computer specialist when they have more difficult questions and know they will get answers. This would take some burden off of the teachers while ensuring the students get the skills they need.
It's true that a huge problem is created if teachers do not cope up with th e technological advancement. Credit to Ryan's mother, this is a case of re-think, re-do, or otherwise just wait till you re-tire. what happens though with every child that will not be able to use a computer because of the previous teacher who couldn't teach that. Also, the educational system of every place must keep up with the technological advancements as well. For example, I was learning how to use Windows 3:11 (remember those) in school, when Windows 95 were already in use, and had them on my computer back home. The reason for that was that the ministry did not spend the money to technologically upgrade software in schools that year.
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