Has technology changed schools? Technology continues to influence life in school, yet schools have remained remarkably unchanged through the years. Slates were replaced by chalkboards which are being replaced by whiteboards, part of a stream of technological innovations that has made its way into the classroom.
How does television affect children? While television holds great educational promise, with high-quality programming such as Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, much of television fare is distorted, unproductive and, at times, damaging. Viewers are treated to a video society that is often violent and replete with stereotypes, populated mostly by males, and few young children. Advertising, often targeted at young viewers, adversely influences children's behavior, including their diets and spending habits. While video libraries and cable channels, such as C-SPAN, A&E, and The History Channel, offer new media learning opportunities, the introduction of ChannelOne, a for-profit enterprise that brings current events and commercials into classrooms, raises questions about the role of commercial television in public schools.
Why is computer technology difficult to implement in schools? Today, virtually all schools are connected to the Internet, although budgets have been strained connecting classrooms to the Internet access. Schools in poorer communities continue to have fewer classrooms online. While some teachers resist technology, others experience "computer evolution," growing from entry level fear to exploring new and exciting uses.
How can teachers effectively use computers and the Internet? Hardware, software, and websites can tie into effective teaching strategies such as multiple intelligences, problem-based and cooperative learning, and direct and deep teaching. Virtual field trips take students around the world, online learning activities can create fascinating learning communities, and personal tutors diagnose learning needs. Assistive or adaptive technology helps special needs students succeed in school. Technology raises some serious concerns for teachers, including monitoring the material that comes in on the Internet, avoiding some of the health risks of computers, and teaching students to detect and mediate the stereotypes and violence that are so much a part of software and Internet resources.
In what ways does global education refocus the curriculum? Global education investigates world topics like conflict reduction and ecology that span national borders. Websites now available to students focus on international issues from child labor and animal migration to confronting intolerance and racism.
How is teaching redefined by virtual schools? The Virtual High School is an example of how technology alters schooling. Through the use of the Internet, e-mail, and other technological tools, students and teachers in different geographic areas and time zones can work together. Virtual teaching offers tomorrow's teachers another type of instructional career.
Does technology exacerbate racial, class, geographic, and gender divisions? Technology has not been an equal opportunity educational resource. Inequity continues to be a major problem as race, gender, and economic status influence access to home computers and high-speed Internet. Wealthier Americans, especially Asian and white males, are the most likely to use computers in school, and the most likely to realize salary benefits from that involvement after graduation, while rural America lags in Internet connections. Non-English speaking and poorer nations also trail behind in technological innovations.
