In Classroom , Computers Often Yield More Glitz Than Guts

I completely agree with the article. The debate over whether or not technology is increasing student learning will not be decided by what type of technology is in the classroom. Instead, the important factor is how the technology is used. If students are left to do what they will with the technology in the classroom, not much learning will occur. Teachers must find meaningful and productive ways to use the technology in the classroom. Technology used in this way can introduce students to worlds they may not be able to visit and help students/teachers navigate around obstacles to learning. For instance, in my previous class about balanced literacy, I learned about TrackStar. TrackStar allows you to make a guided tour through internet sites about a topic. TrackStar allows you to annotate each site so you can specifically communicate to students what you want them to do at each site. This type of activity can significantly enrich learning in the classroom. Instead of just having students google “weather,” I can give them specific websites they will find useful about weather.