Educational Technology - Challenges And Possibilities

Students have been observed to misuse the computers at their disposal. To most of them, computer use in the school is one of the reasons for coming to school. It is easy for the argument to be made that with a good Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), and a vigilant teacher, that should not be a problem. Considering the size of computer classes, usually 27 and more students per class as well as the classroom layout, the problem is obvious. Also, the nature of computers today makes it easier for students to play games with even the most vigilant of teachers. Students will go to their favourite sites or games spots, download the site(s) and minimize or hide the screen behind the sites they are working on. When the teacher is not close by or is attending to other students, they will go to these other sites and on the approach of the teacher will come back to where they are supposed to be. To ascertain and understand the issues of computer use in the high school in relation to equity; who is using it, what is their gender, race; who gets to use what equipment, which labs are they using, ethnicity and the implications to education now and the future, the situation needs to be studied.