Copyright © 2001, 2004, John E. Carpenter. All rights reserved. Publication is pending. Permission for academic use is granted, with appropriate attribution (footnote).
Technology Enhances the Quality of Teaching and Learning Why do we need “all those computers” and the equipment and software to support them? Information technology is used in schools in four basic, complementary ways: 1. Learn about Computers: Everyone who uses a computer wants to know a little about how it works, if only to understand what it can and cannot do for them. From these ‘basics’ comes the “computer literacy” necessary to use the system effectively and to be aware of the available resources and choices. There are many levels, from basic operation, to making simple changes, to system management, to programming and information system design. A high level of student achievement in these areas leads to a variety of career opportunities. 2. Use Computers to Learn about Something Else: When equipped with appropriate software, a computer is a patient tutor and a forgiving teacher. Various forms of computer-assisted instruction have been available for two or more decades. Example of computer assisted instruction (CAI) range from a simple times-tables or spelling tutor, to simulations (like Oregon Trail or Outpost), to interactive multimedia presentations. Most of the products in this category are software, but some hardware products, such as the robotic pieces for Lego Logo and other computer-controlled machines, and the data acquisition sensors used in chemistry and physics experiments. Good CAI software guides students through predetermined sequences of reading and response, and ensures skill proficiency. It provides fast and consistent response, and high-quality stimuli. The current educational technology movement quite correctly recognizes the potential of computers to improve the variety, quality, and availability of learning opportunities for all students. 3. Use Computer Tools to Accomplish Academic Work: The business world uses computers to process work faster, more completely, and at a greater level of detail than before -- sometimes massively so. Tools for these improvements include word processing, Web browsers, reference search programs, spreadsheets, databases, graphic editors, computer-aided design, and project planning software. Students need to learn about these tools for two reasons: to prepare to use these tools as part of their jobs after graduation, and to use them to complete their school assignments now. Therefore, the hardware and software tools provided to the schools must mirror, or even anticipate, the hardware and software used in the working community. 4. Facilitate, Support, and Understand the Teaching and Learning Process: The power of computers lies in their capacity to collect, process, store, and transfer data. Some of the ways educators can use this power include collaborative software (for sharing schedules, plans, materials, and ideas); test scoring and analysis (at the classroom level, for test item analysis, assessing individual student progress, and improving effectiveness of materials and activities); monitoring of individual work (student performance in make-up tests, remedial tutorials, extra practice, and extended learning activities); and databases of effective teaching strategies and resources. Administrative applications include student records, class scheduling, bus routing, and statemandated data reporting. With access to more information, counselors and administrators can match student needs with available resources more easily and accurately. Computers in schools remove mystery and increase student confidence through access and experience. Computers are patient tutors. As students use computers and see their teachers use them, the possibilities grow, and students find more ways to find and process information, practice skills, enjoy new games, and gain new experiences and ideas. Educators and parents must understand the necessity to build-in multiple uses for each school’s precious technology resources, and to enable the school’s staff to use these resources. By planning to use each computer as many of these ways as possible, we get the most out of the investment. By paying attention to each of these four types of use, we remind ourselves of additional ways to serve our students, and to enhance the learning experience. Effectively used, computers multiply staff effectiveness, and they will improve the quality and relevance of each student’s learning experience.