Computers in the Classroom :: Education Teaching

Computers in the Classroom Technology is increasingly becoming part of our everyday life. We can think back to a time when we did not even know what a computer was and all we had was the telephone, radio, and television. Now, we cannot go a day without using my computer and the internet to do something that we need to get done. When did it all change? Everything is happening so fast. We remember going to school and all that we were allowed to use was paper and pencil and we are only twenty and twenty-two years old. When we think about how quickly things have changed, we can only image what it’s going to be like for the next generation. Everyday there is something new coming out into the technology market whether it be, an upgrade to a software package or a new model for a computer. We have come to the realization that as soon as we buy a product, such as a new computer or printer that within a month or less, it is essentially out dated. The reason for that is that as soon as the companies such as Hewett Packard put a new product out on the market, they have already begun work on a new model to improve the one that they just put out. Not only have computers become part of everyday life; they have also become an essential part of instruction in the classroom for both teachers and students. Throughout this paper, we will be discussing several different aspects of why computers are important tool in the classroom. The job of a teacher is to engage students in learning. Computers are engaging learning tools because they reinforce the concepts which are being taught in the classroom. In the past ten years from Kindergarten through college, teachers and students have embraced information technology. Eight-five percent of children know more about computers and the Internet then both their parents (http://www.davidpearcesnyder.com/computers_and_classrooms.htm, n.d). When computers are used in an interactive mode it enhances the average young person’s ability to learn. Some examples of inactive mode include video games, educational games, and chat rooms. In addition, CD-ROMs allow students to learn to read faster and retain more information. In high school, three fourths of students prefer researching school assignments on the Internet (http://www.