Teachers Need To Master Computer Technology example essay topic

RESEARCH PAPER Computers in Education CATE 5303 By Rose Moran June 28, 2002 COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION Abstract In the last fifteen to twenty years computers have driven, with blazing speed, everywhere. They have literally reversed traditional practices. In today's world, without computers, the space program would cease and modern telephone networks would collapse; scientific advances are dependent upon them; businesses of every size have discovered their power and versatility would now find it very difficult to operate as they did before these machines arrived; financial markets grind to a crawl whenever their computers shut down. The list of the modern technology is almost endless. Introduction It has been almost 25 years since Apple Computer dropped it I IEs model in every elementary school in the nation.

Since then, we have seen the computer used as a teacher's aide, a teaching tool, an always up to date encyclopedia, and a disseminator of tests and drill sheets. Without any doubt, these are some fine examples of the use of computer technology in education. We have seen computer evolve from those simple Apple boxes to full-blown multimedia devices equipped with CD-ROM drives, DVD drives, speakers, scanners, printers, and Internet access capabilities. We have seen the sheer number of classroom computers explode in recent years. Congress, parents, and educators demand that schools have more technology tools in an effort to improve educational quality.

However all the hardware in the world will not alone provide for what is truly needed in today's classroom. What is most needed now is not more technology in education but more technology education. So how do we provide this? This paper will explore technology education.

Results Computer skills are required for most high paying jobs. Ten years ago, employers were willing to train their new hires in technology. Today, they expect staff to be computer literate-and everyone is now looking to the schools to provide this skill. So how do we provide this skill? First we must deal with the fact that many classroom teachers are computer illiterate. They must themselves learn how to use the equipment-and one course on using computers in the classroom is not enough.

Teachers need to master computer technology, just they have mastered whatever their teaching skill may be, (reading, writing, arithmetic, etc). Teachers need to master the computer skills so they can be pass onto to the students. School districts need to teachers staff-development classes that feature a solid technology curriculum geared toward adult education. The classes should cover the 10 core technology area, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing, telecommunications, programming, multimedia, applied technology, operating systems, and graphic design. Other elements required for successful staff development, would be hands-on computer activities, and instructions on integrating technology into lesson plans. Secondly, now that we know we need to make sure the teachers are competent computers users, when should technology skills be taught to the students?

The writer of this paper feel that it should be done as early as possible. Findings shows that children as young as three years old can to some degree learn the computer effectively. For example, research shows that third graders find it easier to write with a keyboard than with a pen. When writing is easier, children will want to write more, the more they write the better writers we will have in the future. The key to raising student's achievements is to provide students with a solid foundation of basic skill and to motivate them to learn. Technology can help accomplish this goal.

It engages students and fires their imaginations. It helps teachers stimulate young minds in ways that make a profound and lasting difference. The 3 R's-reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic-are just as important today as they were in the past. Research shows that students gain these skills faster and better with using technology based curriculum. Whether just entering the world of reading and math or preparing for college, technology can better prepare students for success. Technology also helps make learning fun and efficient.

That means students will be more engaged in learning exercises, work for longer periods of time, and work more on the things that are not too easy, not too; difficult, but just right for their own level of accomplishment. The skills that people need to master for life are changing. Students need to learn to read critically and to speak and write persuasively. They need to mine the World Wide Web effectively and efficiently and to understand the meaning embedded in charts, graphs, audio, video, and animation. They need to experience new approaches to learning that are inquiry based, perhaps essential. Technology proficiency helps students take pride in their work.

Conclusion Studies have shown that when technology is a routine part of their school experience, students' attendance improves and dropout rates decline. It turns out that the more days students attend school, the better the chance for success in their future lives. Research also shows that more children finish high school and many more consider continuing on to college when they routinely learn and study with technology. The new No Child Left Behind Act of 2002 (NCLBA) is already have a profound impact on school and district level priorities in the areas of teaching and learning. In fact many experts in Washington are calling the NCLBA the most sweeping education legislation passed by Congress since the Elementary and Secondary Education Act almost 40 years ago.

Beginning with 2002-2003 school year, school districts across the U.S. will implement a vast array of historic changes aimed at substantially improving their academic programs, raising student achievement levels, and re prioritizing their education investments. According to U.S. Education Secretary Rod Paige, "The new law gives states more flexibility on how they spend their education dollars. In return, it requires them to set standards for student achievement, and hold students, teachers, and other educators accountable for results. No Child Left Behind also will give parents new opportunities to make sure their children receive the very best education possible". .

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