Journal 3

"Social Justice- Choice or Necessity?"

by Colleen Swain and David Edyburn

This articles articulates the absolute need for teachers to include instructional technology in their classroom. It reminds us that the U.S. Department of Labor's SCANS reported that in the next two decades 80% of all jobs would require that their workers be technologically fluent. If they are not, people will be forced to take low paying jobs. There definitely is a digital gap. I can feel it among the differences between my sister and I. I am 30 and she is 22 and she is far more technologically inclined than I am. I am forced to go out and seek the knowledge that she has been given in school. This article illustrates the importance of tailoring technology lessons for your students. I think that as a teacher, it will be my responsibility to give my students the tools they will need to be successful adults. Technology is everywhere and is only going to expand an demand more attention. My students will need to know how to access this information and utilize it to their benefit. I think that teachers who are choosing to not include technology in their lesson are doing a disservice to the kids who will need it in their adult life.

Do I think that it is important to include technology in the classroom?

I absolutely this it is a must. If we can get computers in the classroom and have children learn to navigate them at an early age then it will help to close the gap that exists. Children are like sponges and they will absorb anything you put in front of them. We should take advantage while they are young to teach the the fundamentals which they can then carry on as they are exposed to more advanced material.

How can you bring technology in the classroom if your school does not provide it?

I think that becoming aware with the services out there to help you bring in computers, whether they are discounted or refurbished, and knowing how to access the free software will be of great benefit. I believe that it is important to also be aware of places in the community that can provide services for those who do not have them at home. You should be able to direct these students to these places and teach them how to access the different options they provide.