The Need for Technology in Education

By Pat Raffel

The world in the 21st century demands that technology become a integral part of the educational process.

The district is currently in the process of completing an audit of our technology system. This includes inventorying all technology hardware and revamping our infrastructure to incorporate new hardware sytems. Computer purchases and system upgrades are being completed thanks to a technology bond that was passed several years ago. The last of that technology bond money has been allocated and the future of technology needs are currently being determined.

Technology is always changing but the district is following a careful and well-reasoned plan to use tech dollars wisely. Hardware and software are being upgraded; instructional usage is being revised. The practical use of technology is being provided in a new class offering from the CISCO program. This program will develop a professional knowledge in the use of routers and servers that could allow students an employment opportunity directly after high school. It could also provide a basis for an even higher degree of expertise by continuing beyond the high school course work in college or business.

The use of technology in the classroom beyond single word processing is best exemplified in the language arts program. It is showing great signs of developing student communication skills beyond what has historically been expected in traditional language arts curriculum methods. It is also helping motivate average students to become more involved in the curriculum.

The point of technology is not just to be on the cutting edge of the use of hardware. It is a way for students to learn and to integrate their knowledge into either the workforce or advanced education. Education is not just about providing knowledge but it is more about teaching students how to access knowledge. Technology is a powerful tool that students will need to help them gain that knowledge. That is the simple message. We have to continue to improve our knowledge and use of technology. Technology will play a huge part in the future and the destiny of our children.