Computers and Technology

Summary
In Richard Ohmann’s article Computers and Technology the author discusses the technology boom of computers in the classroom. The author describes how in the last two decades computers have become a large phenomenon in education. He notes,
“schools budgeting three times as much on technology in 2000 as in 1992” and constant talk of a technology “revolution”.
Ohmann also makes mention of statistics showing school test scores skyrocketing through the use of technological advancements and of businesses trying to capitalize on situation. He goes on to say that these businesses are not making quite the profits they had expected. Ventures involving computers in education have not been as economically profitable as they have been educationally.
Mr. Ohmann then presents the thoughts that computers are actually not used effectively in schools. He says that teachers are not effectively incorporating computers into the classroom. He feels that schools have rushed to buy computers without knowing why they are buying. He points to student use of computers and says most students are not truly capitalizing on the computers. To support his opinions he adds a list of applications for computers in education.

Response
I agree with Mr. Ohmann’s points. I think schools have rushed into computers. I know that I myself have not participated in the “revolution” of school computers. I have used them but never in as extremely effective a manner as is lorded over by companies and educators. I would like to add that I personally do not feel that computers have truly advanced my education. I feel that outside of writing essays on a computer rather than a typewriter, I do not use computers for my education. I think this sentiment may be echoed by many students.