Response to Learning to Be Wired

Response to Learning to Be Wired by Bob Thompson:

Thompson’s article provided several insights into the positive and negative use of technology in schools in a ‘wired’ society. I agree with most everything Thompson observed and pulled some interesting bits of information to take with me as an educational administrator.

The successes that Thompson found at Lowell school were created by several characteristics. Implementing technology in a school “halfway” ensures that the school and students will not get the most bang for their buck. Technology, as stated in the article, is becoming a constant expenditure for schools. Why waste money by just saying the computers are in the classrooms?

Introducing the computers when and where appropriate was a mission of the school. The need for “face to face and loving relationships” by younger students cannot be replaced by technology. Integrating technology into the curriculum (as the Lowell school did very successfully in writing) will help students become accustomed to computers but not see them as a separate entity.

Helping reluctant teachers with technology using workshops and grants was a super idea. However, as Thompson stated, a good teacher is good no matter what resources they use in the classroom.

Another interesting point Thompson brings up when discussing the implementation of technology in all schools is the discrepancy between poor and rich schools. So much money is now being funneled into poor or low achieving schools. Much of that money is going to putting the newest technology into the schools. However, I feel this is just so the schools will “look good” when others question what is happening to improve the schools. As Thompson states, we need to look at all avenues for school improvement. There is no quick fix.

To an administrator, this article provides a fresh, sensible approach to utilizing technology. Placing computers in the classroom and saying “here you go” is a horrendous waste of resources. Methodical, planned, and appropriate integration of technology is necessary to provide students with the effective exposure they need.