Caroline Daniels

SLM 521

Article Critique #2

Tenbusch, James P. (1998). Teaching the Teachers: Technology Staff Development that

This article presses on the importance of technology and the use of computers in the classroom. While children have no problems learning how to use new computer programs adults are in the minor when it comes to computer proficiency. Teachers are often intimidated by the thought of using computers in the classroom because they do not understand the programs. The article provides helpful information on how to get teachers excited about computers and what they can do for the classroom. You have to get teachers excited about using computers in the classroom before you actually introduce the computer. This can be done by showing teachers how computers can improve not only their classrooms but also their personal lives. Finding resources that the teacher can use right away is important to spark some interest. Teacher training for technology has to begin with the basics that could be as simple as turning the computer on and working basic programs. Teachers should be encouraged from the beginning to use their skills in the classroom because the best way to learn is to interact with the students and without realizing it have the students teaching the teachers. Teachers should be allowed plenty of time to practice their skills and they should have a goal of what programs they want to use in their classrooms.

I do believe that computers if used in the proper way can be of good use in the classroom. Computers should be used in addition to the general classroom information and they should not take away from the lesson. Training for computers is important because for adults it is not something that we were raised around and are familiar with, it is a relatively new phenomenon. Teachers are trained on how to be a teacher and what ways are best to get through to students so there should be training for computers and the use of technology in the classroom also. While teachers are learning how to use computers in the classroom training and other opportunities should not be neglected.