Noelle S. Vilella
Journal Article Review
May 16, 2006
With the help of the Internet, teachers can take students on virtual field trips to places they may never have the opportunity to see in person. This is just one example of how current technology can open the doors of learning to all students regardless of their background. In the article Next Generation Divide Kathleen Vail examines the technology gap between poor and rich children. She points out that the issue is not in the access of technology at school, but in access to technology at home and the quality of instruction and content that students receive. All students need access to computers, Internet connections, and trained teachers to make learning with technology possible. Vail states, “For children and teachers to take full advantage of the digital revolution in teaching and learning, they must know how to use the tools and have unfettered access to them.” The biggest issue is that although students have access to the Internet at school, they do not all have access at home or after school. Over the years, educators and other community leaders have taken the steps to get computers and Internet access into all schools, but the problem now is that students who do not have access to technology at home are at a disadvantage. Vail also points out that although the promise of home computer access is important, it is of no use if teachers are not trained and comfortable with technology. Overall, Vail concludes that it is important to train all teachers and make technology available to all students in order to give them an equal opportunity to achieve success.
After reading this article, I have to agree with many aspects of what Vail has stated. The most important point is that all teachers need to be trained in using technology. All of the computers and high tech software do not mean a thing if the teachers are not trained correctly in integrating these programs and resources into the curriculum. The prospect of every student having a computer and Internet access in his or her home is a wonderful idea, but I do not believe that this is a realistic goal. Vail gives examples of districts opening up media centers and community centers before and after school in order for students to have access to computer labs. I feel that this approach may be more realistic than that thought of each student having a computer in his or her home. I agree that in order for all students to have equal access to the Internet and its resources the community needs to get involved. Teachers and community members can work together to provide after school training, tutoring, and access to close the technology gap between the varieties of economic levels in our schools.
Vail, K. (2003). Next generation divide. American School Board Journal. Retrieved May 11, 2006, from http://www.asbj.com/2003/07/0703technologyfocus2.html