Is Technology the Solution?
By Peter Barnes

Curriculum-based classroom projects are enhanced by using software programs like Kidspiration®.

I have four computers in my classroom, but only one works properly. One has a broken floppy drive, one won't send documents to the printer and one freezes whenever someone uses the Internet. Even when things are functioning as they should, students seem to waste time surfing the web or searching for clip art rather than working. I also struggle to find software that fits my curricular needs and matches my students' abilities. I believe technology is worth the effort, but only when I think carefully about how and when to use it.

Utilize your "tech people"
Our computer lab teacher, Mrs. Wyant, often collaborates with the fifth-grade teachers on curriculum-based projects. During our space unit, students design travel brochures on Microsoft® Publisher® about a planet of their choice. When we study ecology, my students create food webs on Kidspiration®. These projects teach technology skills and further classroom learning at the same time.

Look for at-home opportunities
Countless kids spend their after-school hours surfing the Internet or chatting on Instant Messenger. Our fourth-grade team uses a program called First in Math®, where students play a math problem-solving game called 24® at school or on their home computer. The game is sponsored by McDonald's® and students earn points that are redeemable for free food and beverages. Parents have reported that their kids will often skip playing video games so that they can earn points on First in Math.

Keep things structured
It's tempting to give students a research topic and let them loose on the Internet. I've learned that a lot of time is wasted when boundaries aren't established and try to give my students pre-screened websites from which to choose. Web- quests or web scavenger hunts can also keep kids on track if you have specific information you want them to review. When they are writing, I require my students to finish all typing before messing around with fonts or clip art.

Technology is not the solution for everything wrong with education, but neither is it a waste of time. When carefully planned, technology can make learning fun and engaging. Just don't forget – if your computers ever go on the fritz, a big stack of library books is still a great way to start a research project.

Peter Barnes teaches fifth grade in New Albany, OH.

February, 2007, Vol.37, No.5