Michele Pierantozzi

LS 521 Sp 02

3/3/02

Article Critique

“Myths and Realities About Technology in K-12 Schools”

There are many misconceptions surrounding the role of technology in schools. This article outlines five of these myths and the realities behind them. The first myth states that putting computers in schools will directly improve student learning. The reality is that in order to see results, teachers must be trained to use computers as an educational tool, curriculum has to be modified to include technology, and technicians should be available with in the schools. The second false belief is that there is standards set for computer use in classrooms. On the contrary, clear plans and goals for technology need to be established within individual school districts. The assumption that a teacher with basic computer knowledge is ready to integrate technology into his or her lessons is the third myth. However, teachers must be trained in software applications, meeting curriculum goals, and management techniques in order to effectively teach students using technology. Is having a technology plan enough to have effective technology integration for a school district? The answer is no. In fact, technology needs to be woven into all educational goals and plans, not kept as a separate plan. The final myth states that if schools in less fortunate areas have the same number of computers as schools in wealthier districts, the schools will be equal. In fact, having the technology is only the first in a series of steps. In order to use the technology effectively, all school districts must establish plans and goals for technology, train their teachers, and integrate technology into all areas of the curriculum.

This article forced me to look at the way I use technology in my classroom as well as the training I have received from Staff Development. The school where I work has two brand new I-Mac labs. Two reasons many teachers do not use the labs are: limited room in the curriculum for “extra” lessons and inadequate training using computers to teach lessons. In my lessons, I have used Microsoft Word for word processing and the Internet for research. I know many software programs but I don’t feel confident enough in my knowledge to teach students how to use programs such as Power Point. I have taken several two-hour workshops offered by Staff Development. In one of these workshops, I learned how to use Inspiration but not how to teach students to use the program. The instructor told the class to let kids play around with the program and they would figure it out. I think it would be helpful to have published lesson plans using technology in all areas of the curriculum. One of our staff development days could be focused on different lessons that others have established. With some ideas and time to practice, teachers would be less reluctant to use technology.