Lauren Day-Lewis
SLM 521
10/5/04

Article Critique #2:
“Are You Ready?”

    This article explains that using the internet has become a common, everyday practice for the majority of students.  Therefore, teachers need gain more knowledge of the internet and incorporate technology into their lessons.  In the first section of the article, author Kristen Loschert introduces Tony Vincent, an elementary school teacher in Omaha, Nebraska.  Every one of Vincent’s students uses a handheld computer for each subject.  The mini-computers allow students to edit essays, complete spelling bee quizzes, and animate long division problems (Loschert 2003).  Therefore, Vincent cannot imagine teaching without technology, especially since teaching without technology is no longer an option for teachers in America.  
    Next, the article discusses state requirements and the ISTE National Educational Technology Standards, which require teachers to possess technology proficiency for certification.  While most schools have access to the internet, less then half of all teachers are prepared to use the internet regularly for instruction (Loschert 2003).  Therefore, teacher education programs are presently requiring teachers and preparing future teachers to develop technology-based lessons.  
    This article emphasizes the importance of technology in the classroom, as well as the need for teachers to meet technology standards.  Because some teachers have not yet incorporated technology into their lessons, state and national standards provide requirements that will benefit teachers and students in the long-run.  Also, the article clearly explains that teachers who learn how to use technology to enhance learning will be able to teach students how to develop webpages, use PowerPoint for projects, and participate in internet-based activities.  Although the author stresses the significance of technology in the classroom, she ultimately feels that “the teacher remains the key to conveying information to students” (Loschert 2003).  This means that the teacher always has the discretion to decide whether or not the internet is the best tool to present information.   At the same time, it is necessary for teachers to meet technology standards and gain more knowledge of the internet in order to meet the needs of their students.  Through this article, Loschert does a good job of describing the importance of technology in the classroom and the positive outcomes of internet-based teaching/learning.  She also provides examples of teachers who currently use technology in their curriculums.  

Loschert, Karen. “Are You Ready?” NEA Today. 21(7) (2003).