Technology in Schools

Technology in schools: Unlike the weather, people haven't just been talking about it; they've been doing something about it. The first battle wiring schools with Internet connections is rapidly being won. For most elementary school educators, technology is increasingly available. One powerful way in which technology can do this is to help schools go beyond their four walls, encompassing the community and the world. The Internet, E-mail, and related technologies lend themselves exceptionally well to collaboration. Educators are using these technologies to collaborate with outside experts, parents, community leaders, and especially with peers and students around the world.

Researchers have demonstrated that technology can help address narrow educational problems successfully. For instance, computer-based instruction typically improves test results on the specific material it covers. However, if technology is to support educators' broader goals helping students become creative, recital, lifelong thinkers it cannot be an end in itself. It must be put at the service of learning goals and of the entire school community.

Web sites will increasingly offer not just information but free, advertiser-supported services. Schools are already beginning to take advantage of these services. For example, one such site allows anyone to create his or her own multimedia E-mail postcard. Web services are also available to help teachers plan special events, schedule meetings, and otherwise coordinate activities. From other Web sites, schools can build complete Intranets — private Web sites — at no cost. These Intranets can include group calendars, documents, contact lists, announcement pages, and more. All of these sites are password-protected, so they're more secure than the average Web site.