Computers and Education

1. As the third millennium begins, it is evident that the development of digital technology has had, and will continue to have, a profound, pervasive impact on the course of global civilization.

There's no way to talk about all the technology advances that have taken place over the years but is evident that technology is growing by leaps and bounds. I can't think of a day that I don't use technology and if I try to think about some of the jobs I do without technology it would a disaster.

2. Computer technology has been adapted to amplify the capacity of professionals in virtually every aspect of society-with the exception of the teacher. Rationalizing this reality becomes increasingly difficult, since teaching and learning is an information-intensive process.

I like the point that is made in this section, many teachers have been forced to learn technology and how to do basic functions on the computer. Due to the knowledge that our students have about computers it is essential to try and keep up with what's new and the latest technology trends. It is hard for teachers to incorporate technology with all they have to teach these days but we have to venture out of our comfort zones from time to time.

3. There is generalized intuitive feeling that computers should have a vital role in teaching and learning. What is lacking is a sharply focused definition of that role and a strategy for integrating computers into education alongside books and chalkboards-in a mode that secures the teacher's central role.

It is like I mentioned earlier, teachers must venture out of their comfort zone and explore new ways to teach their lessons and involve technology. Yes, it will take some extra time, but the learning experience for your students will be so much more exciting and hopefully more beneficial for them.

4. Because computers store multimedia information interactively utilzing software that is course-specif, they allow teachers to provide each member of the class an increased number of individualized learning experiences based on the learner's need raher than the teacher's availability.

This is an excellent way for students to get extra practice on skills that they need reinforcement in. I didn't have experience in this since I wasn't a classroom teacher but I have a program that my daughter uses on our home computer and she loves it! It is a treat when students get to work on the computer and most don't realize they are getting extra practice.

5.The mind coupled with a computer infinitely amplifies its capacity to perform the basic cognitive functions. Yet there is no configuration of microchips that replicates the intricate, vital interface between mind and emotions-a basic limitation of computers.

I do agree to a certain extent with this statement. I think we do become dependent on computers to remember information for us. I even heard a teacher at my daughter's school say, "don't worry about spelling very much you know we have spell check". She even said this in front of some students. She was right but what kind of message was she giving her class? Is it alright not to study your spelling words? We ahve to be careful not challenge ourselves not to rely solely on the computer.

6.The fundamental role of computers in the classroom is to extend the capacity of teachers to provide individualized tutoring to learners, thus compensating for the disparity in each individual's capacity to achieve.

The computer can be such a vital tool in helping the learner gain more information. There are so many games and programs that can help reinforce the content areas that the student is having problems with. It is sad that more teachers don't take advantage of this opportunity due to their lack of computer skills.