Cheryl Booker

SLM 521

Fall 2003

Article #1

This article addressed the issue of having a “Technology Rich Classroom”. The statement being made by the authors of the article was not to question the necessity of adequate hardware and software in the classroom, but rather the complexity of the interaction between people and machines, to enhance instructional technology. Also, to answer the question what hardware and software should be provided in a classroom or laboratory so as to maximize student learning. The observation of four middle school classes took place at Kent State University, in Kent, Ohio using the Ameritech Electronic University School Classroom. Both teachers and students were observed several days a week for one full month. One-way glass allowed for direct viewing, while four mounted cameras, one in each corner of the room provided full scale observation. The follow-up surveys validated the conductors of the studies perception. By overwhelming majority, the teachers felt that the computers and specific peripheral devices such as printers, digital cameras and videocassettes recorders were essential. The students felt similarly about these devices when they were surveyed. Regarding software, word processing, a web browser and presentation software these were ranked very necessary by almost all the teachers. The word processing application would definitely be essential for most teachers just due to the nature of their trade. Many of the students took full advantage of the web browser to access the internet and use it as an unlimited resource for their studies.

I feel that a teaching environment with this degree of technology would be a great asset to any curriculum. Teachers and students could work together at computer work stations with a group of students at a specific pace suited for that small group, while helping other groups at their respective pace. This technology would help assist most teachers create and maintain an exciting learning experience for them and their students. As long as the teachers remain interactive with the students’ during their time on the computer; being there to help with questions and guide them through lessons to make certain they comprehend the material, then more technology in the classroom is going to be more prevalent right now and in the future.

Luft, Pamela & Tiene, Drew. "TheTechnology-Rich Classroom." American School Board Journal August. 2002. 26 October. 2003 <http:/www.asbj.com/2002/08/0802technologyfocus.html>