Technology in the classroom
... This paper will reflect on the past, present, and future technological goals using the Jurupa Unified Education Technology Plan 2002-2005 as a guideline. ... Also, I will state my personal views on the current plan and its implementation, and the future needs for technology. ... As our society embraces technological advances, it is very important to keep the students in the classroom up to date on all the advances. Contrary to popular belief, computers are not just being used to play educational games with in the classroom. ... Luckily, there is now less resistance in our society when the subject of technology is brought up. ... School districts across the country understand the importance of technology and the role it takes in education. Word-processing software has been recently scrutinized for its effectiveness in the classroom. ... Many public schools are becoming equipped with computers in the classroom and computer labs. ... Teachers should encourage their use of technology, but also balance their learning by assigning written papers including rough drafts. ... Our society has come along way from teaching students how to use a typewriter; we must encourage our students to learn how to use modern technology so that they are better prepared when they enter the workforce. ... Overall, if teachers use balance in their teaching methods and assignments, students will continue to have a strong spelling and grammatical foundation, but they will be able to use these skills using state of the art technology. It is very important for school districts to set guidelines to manage and evaluate technology use throughout the school district. These guidelines (although mandatory) should be very clear on the districts goals for the use of technology. ... In this plan the district succeeded in providing and expanding: the Wide Area Network, K-12 student data system, a district wide library system, designated one Technology Coordinator for each site, and encouraged innovative uses of technology (Education Technology Plan 2002-2005). ... The Wide Area Network has not yet reached each classroom. ... The idea of having Technology Coordinators at each school site is great, but limited resources allow for only certain grades to use computer labs. ... The new technology plan covers a 3 year span (2002-2005). There are five components it focuses on: *Curriculum –defines how technology can be used to help Jurupa Unified School District’s students meet the academic standards. ... *Infrastructure, Hardware, Technical Support and Software-Identifies the technology and physical plant modifications that are needed to accomplish goals *Funding and Budget-Identifies the funding sources that will be used to meet the goals. *Monitoring and Evaluation –each of the above areas contains a built-in monitoring and evaluation process to help assist the district in determining whether technology had a positive impact on student achievement.