Computers and Technology In Schools

The importance of technology to the future of education in the United States cannot be overstated. With similar urgency, the federal government has realized the impact that technology can have on education and the future of American students.

Many transformations have already occurred within schools at all levels. Digital technology severely has altered everyday life, and its effects have already influenced the classroom. The tendencies of the Information Age that have overtaken the global economy also have redefined how information must be taught and learned.

Many students in both public and private schools already are familiar with most of the technology currently used in classrooms. However, many use them predominately for recreational purposes. Teaching with familiar technologies will inspire students to use them in new ways. Some interesting technologies to use in a classroom include the following:

1. Educational video games
2. Internet based blackboards and discussion boards
3. Smartphones for scheduling

As do all techniques that make their way into the teacher's arsenal, these digital technologies need to be practiced and supported financially. One of the problems currently plaguing technology in the classroom is that private schools generally have an edge over public schools because they have the money to pay for new technologies and update older ones. New legislation is attempting to foster an environment in which technology plays an integral part in education for all students - black and white, rich and poor.

Students many times know more than their teachers about the Internet and other digital technologies. It is crucial for teachers to master them and present them in ways that foster uses beyond simple recreational ones. More than ever, inventions in the digital realm are redefining the field of education; never has there been a more pressing need for educators themselves - along with their students - to continue learning the technologies that now shape the world, inside and outside of the classroom.

The following sections must be included in your research paper on Computers and Technology in schools:

Rationale:

In this section you will name the issue and discuss why it is important to your practice that you study it and come to a conclusion. Begin by defining the issue as used in the literature. There are many parts to each issue. Make sure it is clear exactly what the issue is. In doing this you will refer to the texts and other sources to define the issue. In text citations to the texts of the course and other sources must be used in defining the issue.

You must justify and explain its importance as a part of your philosophy of education. Use practical examples from the classroom you have or will have to demonstrate its importance. Synthesize these examples with references from the literature.

Pro & Con:

This is the Literature Review Section:

In these two separate sections of your paper, you will examine each side of the issue. You will build a case for the issue in the one section then build a case against the issue in the second section. Both of these sections must make extensive use of research beyond the texts of the course. Taking Sides provides numerous links and leads. Use the data bases online. You should also quote from your colleagues' post in the discussion forums for the appropriate lesson... In both sections you will be an unbiased reporter with the aim of examining both sides of the issue.

Conclusion:

This is a theoretical and practical conclusion creating a guide for you to abide by as you teach. Make a clear statement of conclusion so that there is no doubt what your stance is. You may choose to incorporate parts of both sides depending on the issue. Be specific in how your conclusion will enhance the learning or well being of students in your charge. Use examples from the literature that you feel support your conclusion in light of your specific situation or philosophy.