Computers In High Schools: The Growing Need
In high schools the curriculum is totally based on tests. They are designed in such a way that students will be able to score well in different college admission tests, state tests and AP exams. There are many subjects that have o be covered and often including computers in the curriculum will make it even more difficult. It is felt that computers in no way can become a medium to improve the already existing syllabus. Another problem is that required computer access is lacking. Technology though it is being used in schools, the use is very limited. Teachers at most use it for PowerPoint presentations with the original curriculum and students can access computers only for word processing or for research work. High school students however demand more use of the computer technology in their schools. They are interested in using the latest technologies and handhelds and laptops. Moreover use of computers in school can actually improve the skills that are required for the success in standardized tests. The critical thinking skills in students can be improved with the use of technology. They can learn how to create new information instead of reproducing existing information. Students can also learn beyond the classroom. This means that with the use of technology they can connect with an expert in any field and communicate with them, they can control a microscope that is thousands of miles away from them. This encourages students learn more. The information that is available online is also very updated and recent. Students can give their tests online. This way they will get their results immediately and they can know where they have gone wrong. Teachers can also combine the work of all the students into one file and compare their answers to take a better decision. The research material that students use can also be controlled and they can be sure that the materials are more scholarly and correct. A completely paperless class can also be created, where every student has an access to laptops, e-mail is used, and there is a course management program. Current events lessons can be improved by journaling online. It is true that it is more difficult to add technology to the already full course of high school students as compared to the middle school students. Middle school students have more flexibility in their curriculum as compared to high school students. However if students and teachers both have complete access to technology throughout the day and for seven days a week then it can break all classroom barriers. Students will be open to a wider range of knowledge and they can be in contact with experts whose opinion would be of value to them. |
