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July 20, 2006

ASBJ looks at technology as tool for ed reform

With alarming information circulating about high school graduation rates, high schools throughout the country are using technology as a vehicle for reform, according to the July cover story of the American School Board Journal.

The journal notes that technology "doesn't replace a good teacher. It supplements and presents information in a way that allows teachers to move forward at a faster pace. While technology is a powerful tool, the emphasis has to be on content and skills, not tools." However, technology can be a powerful motivator. The National Dropout Prevention Center has grown its education technology strategies for the past decade.

Sam Drew, associate director of the center, says that it doesn't have to be the latest and greatest tool to pull students into the learning process. "That's a big component of why tech is such a good strategy. Many youths are disengaged from the classrooms. They get their information in ways different than previous generations. When they find that in the classroom, it becomes a way to engage them in the instructional process."

Using technology and online learning can prepare students with 21st century skills. Online learning can offer a rigor that some students' schools aren't able to bring them. The courses themselves offer learning, but the simple act of taking the course online teaches the skills of technical literacy, independent learning, and time management skills, while also getting students to think globally.

Interested in learning more education technology? Visit NSBA's Technology Leadership Network (TLN) and check out the upcoming T+L Conference, November 8-10, in Dallas.

Posted July 20, 2006 1:52 PM | Education Technology

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