What role should the Fed Government play in the ed tech policy process?
I decided to find an article regarding the Fed Government and its impact on educational technology integration and use. I just used a basic Google search, and I clicked on one of the first few links.
It brought me to a textbook PDF about technology and No Child Left Behind which I found interesting since it was a main topic of discussion in last week’s class.
Here is the website link: http://www.learningpt.org/pdfs/qkey3.pdf
It is entitled “Understand the No Child Left Behind Act: Technology Integration.
It first talks about building a technology infrastructure. It means, basically, integrating technology into the classroom, library, media center, administrative offices, and the district offices.
NCLB wants technology integration for all students, including those with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, low-income students, migrant populations, and English language learners.
I agree with this statement, and I think that, for the most part, this goal is accomplished. Students with disabilities are able to use technology thanks to all the new innovations, like alternative keyboards, talking calculators, audio books, Apps, graphic organizer software, and Braille printers and keyboards.
In regards to low-income students, most school have some sort of computer labs, although it might not be up to date. However, it’s quality time for them to use the Internet and technology if it is unavailable for them at home.
The term for the idea you are talking about, at least as it is used now is digital equity. The older term, but still used sometimes, is digital divide. I would like to think that most American students have equitable access AND are using their access to is full potential but I am not convinced. Being a white, highly educated, middle class woman, I am not sure I can make generalizations about this from my experiences. I wonder what recent reports say about this issue?
ReplyDeleteHi Alex,
ReplyDeleteI found this same article. I found it really interesting. I also agree with what the article stated. I think it is vital that No Child Left Behind wants technology integration for all students, including those with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, low-income students, migrant populations, and English language learners. I think every student regardless of their age, background, race, or ethnicity should have the privilege to utilize technology in his or her school. I do agree that some schools may have out-of-date computers and/or technology, but at least the students are using the technology that is provided. Hopefully with funds and grants, schools can get advanced equipment and computers for the students to use. All students need to be able to have a hands-on experience with technology!
-Denisha Russell