Oppenheimer’s The Computer Delusion is a very provocative article about computers in education. It brings up many interesting points and I can see why this article would be considered controversial. Being in the Educational Technology program, I do believe in using computers and incorporating technology in to education whenever possible. I also think that the positives for the use of technology on schools far outweigh the negatives. I love learning about new ways to incorporate technology into the classroom to make learning more interactive and fun. That being said, there is certainly a need for balance and Oppenheimer's article addressed this concern very well.
It was interesting to read that many schools are shifting funds for other programs, such as shop or art classes. I do agree that it may not be the best decision, to take from one area and put into another. There needs to be a balance of skills in addition to technology skills. The world we live in requires technology skills, and it is important that as educators we prepare our students to be successful. But since so many students access to computers and technology on their own time, shouldn't school expose them to new experiences too? The article mentioned a school that "killed its music program last year to hire a technology coordinator" along with other examples of elimination of a subject for technology.
I agreed with the discussion in the article about giving students a "broad base" and the need to use common sense when implementing technology. Most proponents of technology do not intend for technology to replace teachers. That is why it is important to educate teachers about the "project-oriented learning" approach that can increase student success with technology. Oppenheimer is not suggesting that computers be banned, but that more thought be put into the federal spending on the push for compters in schools. The article is very thought provoking and a must read for anyone interested in different perspectives on computers in education.
I agreed with the discussion in the article about giving students a "broad base" and the need to use common sense when implementing technology. Most proponents of technology do not intend for technology to replace teachers. That is why it is important to educate teachers about the "project-oriented learning" approach that can increase student success with technology. Oppenheimer is not suggesting that computers be banned, but that more thought be put into the federal spending on the push for compters in schools. The article is very thought provoking and a must read for anyone interested in different perspectives on computers in education.
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