I think that technology in the classroom is a positive thing. With the way society is headed, if education did not gear towards its technological resources, students coming out of the educational systems would be at a severe disadvantage. In K-12 classrooms, I believe that computer use should be monitored and regulated. Kids are still learning and may not understand what would be appropriate online. On the college level, I believe it should be up to students to use their time wisely. They are paying for their education and if they decide to waste it by reading their email in class that is their own choice. I also think that it is good to see discussion forums and online classes within the college campus. If we have the technology to do so, then why not. Now people who work in the day can take courses online during their free time and 200 people courses can hold discussions where students aren't afraid to think their mind. I am concerned about privacy issues, but I feel if people are educated about how they use the Internet, that should be able to be controlled.
What changes have you noticed in the use of technology in education in the past five years?
I think the biggest change in technology is the resources for research. Instead of having to go to the library to find information, there are thousands of websites and databases at the mere click of a mouse. It makes the information more readily available and increases the ease of access. As long as you can identify valid information from what is unreliable, you can do an entire research assignment without opening a book.What is expected of you as a CSU student in terms of computer literacy, (if we define it as “the knowledge and ability a person has to use computers and technology efficiently”)? What do you have to be able to do with computers and technology in order to be successful in your education?
At CSU being able to use the Internet is a must. Professors rely on RamCT to assign homework and even give tests and quizzes. Students come into the university expected to understand how to use and access these programs. Typed assignments are also a must. No longer is it acceptable to turn in a hand written paper. If you do not own a computer, you are supposed to understand how to use the computers on campus. Classes also often communicate important information through email. Basically, if you do not know how to use a computer, it will be difficult to succeed at CSU.Based on what is expected of you, develop a set of criteria for computer literacy, specifically what a university student needs to know and be able to do upon entering college and/or the work force.
- How to use email
- How to use the basic Microsoft Office Applications (or a similar program)
- How to navigate the university's website
- How to use the Internet to find resources of information
- How to type
In terms of the criteria you’ve developed: is this type of computer literacy something we should teach at the high school or university level, or is it up to students to learn on their own?
I believe that these criteria should be taught throughout school. Most of them are taught at a young age either through default, seeing a family member doing it, or in a specific class. By the time students reach high school, most all of them can type, email, and find resources online. I think this is something that is learned by being in our society and our university assumes once we come to their school, these skills are already acquired.Is it important to try and narrow the "Digital Divide" (accessibility and usability)? Are you concerned about this issue? Why or why not? If so, how can we narrow the divide? Does the "Digital Divide" affect you or anyone you know? In what ways, specifically?
I think with the way society depends on the Internet and technology, it is important to narrow the digital divide. I think that offering free courses to people who may not understand how to use technology would be helpful, and since they don't have to pay for them, they would be more likely to attend and then catch up with the rest of society. I think it is an important issue, otherwise people who do not grow up with the same access to technology may not be able to be successful members of society. I know that my that my parents and grandparents are affected. Trying to teach my grandmother to use instant messenger is a nightmare. Although this isn't necessary for her to survive, it is merely an example of how people who are used to their old ways, have a hard time adapting to the advances of technology. My parents have come a long way in the years. They used to have problems emailing, or checking their bank statements online. Today, since they have adapted to technology and made an effort to be a part of the community, they can use the Internet with ease.In "Societal Implications and Ethical Choices" David and Jean Farkas argue that "[s]lowly, and in ways we cannot predict, the Internet is changing literacy—how we read, write, and in some ways, how we think" and go on to suggest two possible outcomes:
1. From the perspective of Douglas Rushkoff who "looks to future generations who are better able to synthesize knowledge from many sources and who are more successful in dealing with complexity and change" (118)
OR
2. "Because the non-linear nature of the Web accustoms us to navigate freely among short chunks of information, the Web may further the erosion of essential literacies. Already we are a restless culture that is increasingly pervaded by the summary and sound bite. If large numbers of people become unwilling to read or even listen to lengthy explanations and arguments, how will society as a whole carry out complex affairs…"? (118)
Which do you think is more likely? Why? What have you read, observed or experienced that makes you so sure?
I think that the first scenarios is more likely. Just because or reading materials are generally virtual instead of on paper, doesn't make us illiterate. Instead, I believe it does in fact better prepare us for change. Over the past few years, more and more programs have come out the have taken the place of the previous. Whether it be for typing, university databases, or even social networking, our generation has had to adapt to the "new" many times. I feel that we understand things are changing and aren't afraid to adapt to the future. Our generation knows that it is coming and because of that is ready to embrace it.
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