Date of Defense

4-21-1999

Department

Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies

First Advisor

Elsie Bennett

Second Advisor

Dr. Howard R. Poole

Third Advisor

Tracy DuBay

Abstract

"Today at school we learned about technology, education, student interaction, and proper methods of using the computer." This was a third grader's response to his mother when she asked him what he had learned at school that day. Are any of these words familiar? These words are the "buzz" words that describe the overall direction that today's classrooms are moving towards. Today's classrooms are striving to create an interactive environment where children can learn in a technology enriched setting. A student can sit down and compose an original story, illustrate it, and publish his/her work in a single session. "Surfing" on the Internet provides unlimited possibilities to explore endless subjects, communicate with many people, and even interact with other cultures. Avast array of reference and research material is available via computer as well. We need to bear in mind, however, that not all computers are designed for instruction. Computers are being used in thousands of applications in cars, homes, businesses, factories, and many other facets of our daily lives. Some computers, such as the computer game systems of Nintendo and Sega, are designed strictly for entertainment. Other computers aid workers on the assembly line to increase production. These types of experiences positively enhance adult's and children's abilities, achievements, and assist in their success. The path of the future is by way of the computer and technology, and the children in today's schools are being encouraged and instructed to follow this path. This way they will be prepared to go out into the work force with a working knowledge and a positive attitude toward computers and technology. Technology encompasses many valuable resources, which can be utilized only through proper and thorough implementation. Incorporating technology into the classroom involves dealing with many different angles, weighing the positive contributions that technology offers, weighing the negative contributions that technology produces, and then creating and installing a flexible plan that will appropriately allow for the transition of technology into the classroom.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Campus Only

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