We had a quick meeting yesterday. We are beginning to use the program
"Keyboarding Without Tears"
We are excited to start to use this. Our third and fourth graders were issued ChromeBooks this year. They will have to take their state tests on the computers in a couple years. In order to help them be proficient in taking the test we have decided to teach them how to use the computer more efficiently.
That being said, there was a long discussion of what happens when students bring home their devices and are not able to use them. No wifi.
Some public libraries will lend you a computer and a hotspot. Is this the answer? I am not sure. I know the answer is not to tell a parent that there are plenty of places with free wifi. Starbucks...Dunkin"...the firehouse.
Is that what these kids need to be doing at 7:00 or 8:00 at night? Doing their homework in a car near the fire station? I am not sure what the answer is for this.
I am fortunate to work in a district that has some money available for new technology. Our students are lucky, but that doesn't mean they have the same access at home.
What about those districts that don't have the funds?
On September 26th, National Geographic is airing a documentary about the Digital Divide in America. I have watched the trailer. I can't wait to see it. I think it is going to open up some eyes.
I hope it will open up some eyes.
"Keyboarding Without Tears"
We are excited to start to use this. Our third and fourth graders were issued ChromeBooks this year. They will have to take their state tests on the computers in a couple years. In order to help them be proficient in taking the test we have decided to teach them how to use the computer more efficiently.
That being said, there was a long discussion of what happens when students bring home their devices and are not able to use them. No wifi.
Some public libraries will lend you a computer and a hotspot. Is this the answer? I am not sure. I know the answer is not to tell a parent that there are plenty of places with free wifi. Starbucks...Dunkin"...the firehouse.
Is that what these kids need to be doing at 7:00 or 8:00 at night? Doing their homework in a car near the fire station? I am not sure what the answer is for this.
I am fortunate to work in a district that has some money available for new technology. Our students are lucky, but that doesn't mean they have the same access at home.
What about those districts that don't have the funds?
On September 26th, National Geographic is airing a documentary about the Digital Divide in America. I have watched the trailer. I can't wait to see it. I think it is going to open up some eyes.
I hope it will open up some eyes.
