Article Reflections {Blog Two}

In his article Integrating Technology into the Classroom Jong H. Chung address the shifting ways in which teachers deliver information to their students. After a brief history of technology’s roll in classroom instruction Chung states the technologies of the past have had positive impacts in education. As technology like Internet and personal computers become more advanced their use in classrooms is becoming more prevalent. With greater access to larger amounts of information classrooms are becoming truly constructivist environments in which students are making new discoveries through computer programs and many interactive interfaces. However, these tools come at a high cost and many rural and urban school systems cannot afford to keep up with ever changing devices and software. It is the students in these programs that are falling behind and ultimately unprepared for the working world.

After gaining an understanding of the history of technology in the classroom and the ways classrooms are being affected by technology, we are left with the question: So what? As our world becomes more and more technology driven it is crucial we produce students ready compete in a highly competitive global network, but with high cost of technology what will happen to those students that cannot afford to keep up? In my experience, technology has given underprivileged students access to a wealth of information they wouldn’t otherwise learn, however, it has widened the gap between lower and upper class students.

As teachers, it is our responsibility to challenge all of students no matter what their technology proficiency level. This can be achieved a myriad of ways. As a first step in introducing tech to students with little exposure I would recommend educational websites offer games and interactive puzzles. These sites provide simple platforms to get students acclimated to keyboards and tracker-pads.  Next, slowly introduce search engines and emphases the importance of finding creditable information. Finally, require technology applications such as; PowerPoint or Blogger for a presentation!