research2

Belanger, Y. (2000). Laptop computers in the K-12 classroom. Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University (ERIC Doc. Rep. Ser. NO. ED 440 644)

Did you every think the day would come when we used laptop computers in our classrooms? I wanted to include this article because it was a surprise for me to read about. Several pilot programs have encouraged school districts to think about portable technology for their students. This article investigated a study by Microsoft called Anytime Anywhere Learning that researched five models of laptop use. These models included:
     1 - concentrated: each student has their own laptop for home or school use.
     2 - class set: a set is purchased by the school and shared among teachers.
     3 - dispersed: there are students with or without laptops in a class.
     4 - desktop: each class is assigned a few laptops for students to share.
     5 - mixed: a combination of the prior four models.
Althoug much of the research is still new and uncertain, schools with the laptop programs remain enthusiastic about the benefits of these programs. This article also shows that portable computers have increased student motivation, and helped to create more student-centered classrooms. Although many school districts still do not have basic technology needs such as telephones or full sized computers, this is an interesting way that some schools are able to use technology. By providing computers that students can take home, we are creating the possibility for more community-centered environments and parent envolvement. This is definitely an interesting topic that warrants more exploration!

Alternative Assessment and Technology (1993). Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University. (ERIC Doc. Rep. Ser. No. ED 365 312)

This article discusses a topic that is very important for teachers, alternative forms of assessment. Instead of merely monitoring our students learning by age old practices of multiple choice exams, we must use methods that more accurately measure and promote critical thinking strategies and learning goals. This digest discusses the benefits of practices such as performance-based assessment, and portfolio assessment as well as the ways technology can benefit assessment. The Center for Technology in Education (CTE) has been investigating ways to integrate into the world of alternative assessment by working with various schools. Throughout these experiments, the CTE has tried many technology based assessment tools including: computer simulations, oral presentations, paired explanations, progress interviews, and videotaped demonstrations. Although these experiments were conducted in high school science and mathematics classes by the CTE, other grade levels and subjects could integrate the technology based assessments as well. This article is great for teachers who are ready to start making changes in how they assess their students. This way of integrating technology will provide motivation for students as well as heightening the teachers' knowledge of technology. This article is a great place to start learning about technology in our everyday assessment of students.

Lonergan, J. M. (2000). Internet access and content for urban schools and communities. New York, NY: Columbia University. (ERIC Doc. Rep. Ser. No. ED 446 180)

This article addresses an issue that is integral to most communities in our nation. It is important for new teachers to understand this difference, and see where their school fits on the continuum of technology. Since 1996 most schools have had access to the Internet, however, the amount of computers varies greatly. Traditionally communities that are primarily highly educated, white, and in a higher socioeconomic bracket have had fewer students per computer than urban communitites with poorer students. Although these communities with fewer computers have Internet access there are several limitations to this use including:
     1- lack of community information on the Internet
     2 - literacy barriers
     3 - language barriers
     4 - lack of cultural diversity in Internet materials.
Although there is work being done to combat these limitations, there is still work to be done. Communities are also working to provide affordable access to homes and schools in these areas through public policies and private funding. One well known program is the Education rate or E-rate program. Through these programs perhaps one day all teachers, parents, and students will have adequate access to technology. Until then, we must do what we can in our classrooms to introduce and effectively use technology with our children. Good luck!