Beyond Bricks and Mortar- By Victor Rivero

This article examines the rapid emergence of E-learning and digital content in school systems and how this has effected how students learn. E-learning is beneficial since students are from varying backgrounds, do not learn at the same rates, and programs can be tailored to each student’s academic needs. For example, as a student is on-line, schools may use a system that is able to pinpoint which aspects of a curriculum a student is having difficulties with, and then the student can be given additional practice in that area. On the other hand, a student who quickly learns the assigned content may be given additional material to challenge him of her. As the amount of digital content increases, E-learning programs give students with different backgrounds and geographic locations the ability to share their ideas with one another by virtual field trips and video conferencing. Broadband access will be key in developing these programs in the future. E-learning programs have also been used in conjunction with traditional teaching methods to enhance the performance of students who are learning English as a second language. ESL Students are able to work independently while teachers can monitor their individual progress and provide them with assistance as needed. In order for E-learning programs to be successful, quality digital content must be provided, schools must have the necessary funding, and all students must have access to E-learning. It is also crucial that both teachers and students are properly trained in using digital resources.

As a BEST student without prior teaching experience, I found this article to be very informative. I knew that schools were quickly becoming more involved with technology, but not to the degree that content was being individually tailored to students. Allowing children to learn at their own pace and at their individual ability level is a plus, as is having access to learning experiences not found in text books. I believe that some students are uncomfortable with the idea of being grouped by academic ability in the face of their peers, and E-learning programs alleviate some of that pressure. Many of today’s students are technology-savvy, and E-learning is way of keeping lessons interesting for them. It is a wonderful tool as long as students are provided with support by teachers, especially in the case of ESL students. I also agree with Burck Smith, CEO of Smarthinking that the most important way to see that students succeed is by close communication between parents and their children and parents and teachers. As a teacher candidate, I am excited about the resources available online and the prospect of enhancing my professional development with these resources. Although issues such as lack of broadband access exist in schools which may limit access to some really innovative content, I believe this will become less and less in the coming years. As much as it has progressed thus far, E-learning still has much to offer in the future.

Rivero,Victor (2005, September) Beyond Bricks and Mortar. American School Board Journal

http://www.asbj.com/specialreports/0905SpecialReports/S1.html

February 7, 2006