Computer Delusion

     The article "The Computer Delusion" by Todd Oppenheimer addresses the issue that school districts are using technology as a "fix all" solution to the problems that exist in our education system. The newest technology is always sought after as the best way to enhance and improve our classrooms and lesson plans. But how far are we going to go before computers and other technologies are running our classes for us?

     I definitely believe that computer delusion is a real issue in not only our classrooms, but in society in general today. New technology is NOT the answer to our problems. Of course certain technologies have improved our students' learning experience in the past, and it will continue to improve also, but we as educators cannot let these improvements take over our teaching responsibilities. There are many things in school that children cannot learn via technology. Let's make it clear that it is also not a good thing for students to be sitting at a computer or staring into another electronic device for too long every day. Too much computer use can cause headaches and pain in the eyes and hands/wrists.


     In Todd Oppenheimer's article, he addressed a new technological school in California where students completed all classes and lessons on computers. I immediately thought of their social well-being. Sure, we have social networking that allows us to interact with friends online, but do these students get the chance to simply sit and have a conversation? You have to make friends the old fashioned way before you can chat with them on Facebook or Twitter (or at least, you should). Technology classes are also replacing classes that focus on the arts and technical/vocational trades, with the fear that students who do not participate in these classes will not be prepared for the tech-savvy world that sits before them. Let's make it clear that college and computers is NOT right for every student, and without the opportunities to learn a trade in high school, where are they left when the graduate? These opportunities should continue to be available for students who may not succeed academically or who do not fit into the college mold.


     I am not against technology at all. In fact, I love to be up-to-date with the latest products, apps, sites, etc., but there is a fine line between enjoying and benefiting from technology and becoming dependent on it. Yes, the world is changing and we are relying on technology more to get us through each day. It definitely has a place in schools, but we cannot let it take over a majority of the learning that needs to take place.