Challenges with Technology in the Classroom

Technology is becoming more advanced every day.  Today's kids are growing up with high speed Internet, computers, cell phones and other electronics.  Today's teachers and parents, however, did not have this technology at such an early age.  Many of us remember getting our first family computer, and finally having Internet access was a big deal. Our children have never experienced a time before computers.

This poses a challenge to us as educators and parents.  Children need to be well exposed to technology in order to succeed in the workforce as adults.  The only way to properly educate our children in new innovations is to educate ourselves.  We cannot be fearful of technology.  In fact, it may turn out that we like these "new fangled" iPhones and tablets.

Another challenge parents and educators are having to face is the price of technology.  A laptop is much more expensive than a notebook and pencil.  Not all children have the luxury of having a home computer, and many schools do not have the budget to provide a high tech media center.  Children from low income homes or schools should not be denied a quality education.  If each classroom had access to even just one computer with a projector, the students would still be exposed to technology.  With the use of a projector, the teacher could even give computer demonstrations so the students could see a step-by-step process.

While all of this new technology can seem overwhelming, it can really be helpful.  A good understanding of technology will instill a greater mutual respect between children and adults.  So many times, I have seen adults tell kids they are lazy for doing their research on a computer.  I have also seen children who think adults are dumb for not knowing how to use a computer.  If both sides had a working knowledge of various forms of technology, they would be able to better communicate with each other, and have a greater respect for one another.  With computers and Internet, students have more resources for learning.  It takes just as much work to find a credible webpage as it does to browse through books in the library.  Fear of technology is detrimental not only to us, but most importantly to the children we are raising.

*Quick and Easy Compute Basics
Computers for Dummies Cheat Sheet

*New York Times Tech
Article on introducing technology to the elderly

*Kids Have "Adult" Tech Skills
Article on kids' advanced skills

*Apple Education
Apple products and education resources