Outlandish article!

http://naesp.typepad.com/blog/2007/08/computers-in-th.html (this is the site I found the article on)

http://www.naesp.org/ContentLoad.do?contentId=2277 (here is the actual article)

This is a disappointing step backward in a crusade toward technological advancement and familiarity for all students and the future of humanity. Sure, the article is only trying to illuminate the disadvantages that introducing technology into the classroom confers, but its arguments are absurd. They argue that some children lack access to computers and cannot complete assignments, however, this is the reason to allow them time to absorb material and to familiarize themselves with computers. We are hoping to level the playing field and offer everyone an equal advantage and as much instruction as can be offered. This is no excuse to deny anyone their right to an equitable education.

At one point the authors mention that “rapid changes in computer hardware and software are likely to make the 'new' equipment obsolete before the teachers and technology staff can get them to work properly. ” The reality is that everyone who purchases any technology arrives at their home and unpacks an obsolete machine. This does not lessen its value, for the rest of humanity is likely using similar (or even older) equipment (if any!). The educational value still lies within obsolescent technology, and it will be so for years to come.

Another of the absurd arguments put forth by the authors of this article is the blaming of chat rooms for the “increase in racist and sexist remarks”. As children are indicating that their language is just an extention of the discussions they are having in "unmonitored" chatrooms. If it isn’t computers, television will be blamed, or movies, or music, etc. We’ve seen this argument many times before, confronting every medium. The truth is, children will access this information from the media, or vicariously through their peers, who have accessed the media. We do not live in a social vacuum and cannot isolate ourselves from the negative influences that exist around us - perhaps the chat rooms should be monitored if frequented.

I found this article disappointing, and was surprised to find it written in 2007. Perhaps it would have been more enlightening if written 15 years prior to its publication date.