New Technologies

These are my initial thoughts about 1:1 computing initiative in the public schools after reading a One-to-One blog by Alvin Trusty. http://www.trustyetc.com/trustyblog/2007/05/10/one-to-one/

I feel that technology and computers are a necessity to prepare our students for the flat world. I don’t believe that a 1:1 initiative is the best solution currently for public education. I believe that a lot can be accomplished with a student:computer ratio of 3 to 1. Three to five computers per classroom with a lab or two is a good situation for most schools.

First a 1:1 ratio is a huge cost for most schools. Beyond the equipment there are the intellectual capital, software, staff development, and infrastructure issues. For some schools, having money has its’ own set of problems, frivolous spending without thinking about all of the above mentioned support issues. I recently calculated the cost of supporting a new PC with a 5 year replacement cycle. The cost of the PC was about $800 and the 5 year cost for support and software licenses was another $800. This can quickly break the bank It is important for technology departments to grab the bull by the horns and set some guidelines for purchasing. Work with curriculum, student services, treasurer, and technology committee to come up with a plan that works for your district.

I feel that using mini labs in the classrooms supplemented with lab visits provides the students with the best possible technology experience while allowing the teacher to differentiate instruction.

Laptops still cost more than desktops and desktops are more durable and reliable than laptops. Don’t forget to calculate in the cost of a replacement battery.

I think it is still important to ask why we need laptops. Do they really need to be mobile? Are they going to remain in the classroom? If they are to go home with students, do they have internet access?

A laptop cart is a good solution for schools that do not have many resources and need to share the technology.

I do believe that (OLPC) One Laptop Per Child is a noble cause, especially for $100.
http://www.laptop.org

A Maine Education Policy Research Institute study suggests looking at issues closely such as, technological issues, time constraints, teacher expectations and policies. As with any change, pedagogical issues need to be discussed, the pedagogical views in this study were rapid and dramatic.
http://www.usm.maine.edu/cepare/Reports/MLTI_Report5.pdf

I may change my point of view if education funding in
Ohio improves and the cost of the technology continues to drop.