Laura Adams
SLM 521
Article 1
A new study shows the
effectiveness – and the limitations – of school technology.
This article discusses research in
the area of computer use and technology in the classroom. The benefits shown in early studies, which were
based mostly drill and practice activities, include individualized instruction
with instant feedback, more learning in less time, development of positive
attitudes towards computers and increase in student motivation. However, these
studies showed little or no effect on attitudes toward subject materials. Later
research, on the other hand, shows a positive impact on all subject area for
all students. These results are reflective of the expanding scope and
availability of technology itself. The
benefits from these later studies include improvement in writing skills,
increase in responsibility for work and higher quality work, etc. The article sites a report by the American
Institutes for Research in
As much as the computer and
technology has been integrated into every aspect of our lives, I am amazed at
the amount of continuing research on the subject. I agree with the article in that it is time
to stop questioning its value and begin training all of our teachers how to use
if effectively and efficiently. I have been in the workforce in another
capacity for many years and computers and technology are vital tools. I was
surprised as I entered the graduate program and met people who are teaching and
know little about even basic software. I have heard the “when do I have time to
include the computer in my lessons” from veteran teachers. I think the school
systems should provide support for teachers with time and instruction to learn
to mastery the art of using technology and the internet, and maybe they do.
Source:
Coley, Richard J. (September 1997). Technology’s Impact. Electronic School. Retrieved