In this article, Monke points to a debate regarding the "effectiveness of computers as learning tools." He points out the computers are being introduced earlier and earlier to our children to help them become acquainted. Monke point is that early introduction is not necessarily warranted as there are certain age and moral and cognitive milestones that first must be reached in order to use technology responsibly. With the power of vast amounts of information students have to be able to handle the power and be taught how to use it wisely. Some interesting statistics were presented on computers as linked with student achievement.
- "the MORE access students had to computers in school and at home, the lower their overall test scores.
- "Students will experience an estimated 30 percent fewer face-to-face encounters than previous generations."
Monke states that "what we need from schools is not balance in using high technology, but an effort to balance children's machine-dominate lives." He further points to students lack "hope, respect, moral judgement" and other qualities that is leading to failing students- not their lack of access to technology. Rather he envisions that early childhood filled with traditional hands on activities, face to face conversations, and direct encounters with their world instead of experiencing them through a computer screen. After this foundation is built in young children, then high school students can place emphasis on technologies both learning about their capabilities and learning to use those capabilities. After all, technologies that children will learn about in early years will be obsolete before they are in a place to effectively use such technologies. This approach would restore a proper balance and be an effective approach to technology.
As a mom
Being the mother of three young children, I really reflected on the information that was presented in this article. While I see the authors point regarding technology, I still feel early exposure to some sore of technology helps students not to fear it but embrace it. Sometimes I watch my Mom still trying to learn how to attach an document to an e-mail and the phobia that sometimes seems to overwhelm her of this foreign tool called a computer. On the opposite spectrum, I see five and six year old children that have their world wrapped up in digital technologies like computer games, leapsters, webkinz, Wii, and v-smile. The seem more interested in digital pets than spending time with real animals and watching in fascination at the animal behavior. So I prefer a balanced approach of a sensible, restricted use of technology to let them experience the power and anticipate it's awesomeness without losing touch with the natural world. My kids have leapsters and a plant growing kit where we will feed a Venus fly trap real bugs.
As a teacher
As a high school teacher, I see that computer should be lightly integrated in the early elementary years, with more exposure in the middle school ages. Technology can be such a powerful tool that can bring some aspects of the natural world to life that some children may never get to have the real hands on experience. Teaching how to use technology in a morally responsible manner is a valuable lesson that also must be focused on rather than just the technical applications. This will help students be able to see the positive and negatives that are out there so they can make wise choices. I value integrating technology into teaching whenever it accentuates learning as well as letting students have access to technology to creatively use to further explore content material that is presented in class.
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