When I was in elementary school, I remember the internet in its birth. The classic sound of dialing a number to connect to the internet. First the ring tones followed by the high pitched squeals and tones, followed by the static of waiting for the internet to be sent to your computer. Then came the exciting part- waiting three minutes for the webpage to load.
Technology has come a long way since those dial up tones brought to you by AOL. It sure has had an impact on educational practices but despite these advances, we have created an unintentional probelm of equitity- $$$. The internet is not cheap and has created a barrier for students.
The good news is that education creates an relevant environment to help students have access to technology in order for them to be successful later on in life.
Tips for bridging the gap within schools
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Create an inclusive environment
Although many students have access to some kind of smart device, data isn’t cheap. If you assign work at home that requires online activity, be sure to have a plan for those who do not have access.
Does your school have a computer lab time aviable before or afterschool for students to access?
2. Teach technology skills
Sometimes we expect students to be experts at technology because they have grown up with it in their lives. However, students who don’t have access to technology lack skills needed to be successful. Teaching skills is more relevant now then ever.
3. Make technology relevant
How does the world use technology? Think about global partnerships and use collaboration skills. Bridge this into your classroom and you will see students using technology to perform 21st skills.
4. Don’t over do it
I have seen several students who don’t have the internet at home and they can get sucked into technology. For some it becomes obsessive. Teaching moderation is a useful skill.
Academy of Edification 