Overview

In the article “Tools for the Mind” Mary Burns starts off by looking back at articles from the early 1990s and how they had a more hopeful outlook on the use of computers and education. Unfortunately, computers are not being used to their fullest potential in the classroom.

Many times classrooms use software for “show and tell” rather than higher level thinking. This can be seen by the use of PowerPoint presentations rather then using spreadsheets to analyze data. The presentations don’t require much complex thinking, as opposed to the numerous tasks that could be done with spreadsheets.

In order for students to use technology to the fullest they must not only use information, but create it. In order for this to happen teachers need to ask themselves questions about what they are using and why they are using it. Bottom line is figuring out if the technology they are using is helping the students achieve a higher level of thinking.


Reference Points

“Computers can provide transformative students learning experiences that would otherwise not be possible.”

Computers can provide students with “eureka” moments because they are able to model different scenarios using spreadsheets.

“Many districts have concentrated on professional development that trains teachers in skills instead of teaching them how computers can enhance student learning.”

“Students generally use the Internet as an electronic textbook, often without questioning, validating, or evaluating the information they find.”

“Higher-order tools, for the most part, are not as user-friendly or visually appealing.”


Reflection

The science class that I am in right now does not use a lot of technology so I have not thought about this area of technology very extensively. The only lesson plan I have created for an on-line assignment was looking at topo maps. The website was free and students could look at any location in the United States. It was a really fun activity, but looking back on it there was not much of the higher level thinking. The computer basically served the same purpose as a paper map. However, it was very nice having so many maps available.

In science it is very important to learn the skills of using computer for data analysis. This is something that could easily be incorporated into multiple lessons. Looking at different lab groups data and then charting, along with a wide variety of other assignment. I totally agree with this article. If schools are going to push technology we should take the time to utilize it to its fullest potential. I have to admit that I am not all that familiar with technology so it would be harder for me to have the students use programs that engage higher level thinking. I would need some more training, or just time to explore the available options.