For students returning to Bethany next year, the school’s new laptop program will be an adjustment. The program marks a transition towards classes that will involve more online resources and digital media. The staff has tried to work more computer technology into the classes throughout the year so that students can get used to the idea. However, it seems some are still reluctant to fully accept the program.
The one-for-one laptop program certainly has its benefits. Teachers won’t be scrambling for computer access, especially when classes are taking standardized tests. In addition, researching and sharing information have been revolutionized by the internet, which makes researching much easier.
Another huge benefit will be the job skills gained from using computers throughout high school. In addition to jobs in computer technology, which is a thriving field, computers are used in jobs
in journalism and sales, to name a few. Computer literacy is a necessity in the workplace, and if you’re willing to help your coworkers with their technology, it could even open up opportunities for advancement.
Many students fear that the computers will become the main focus of classes and take away from the actual education. Giving students expensive equipment could be dangerous; stolen computers aren’t likely to be an issue at Bethany, but lost, broken, forgotten, or uncharged computers could create problems in class. According to an article in the Houston Chronicle, using computers in the workplace can contribute to communications breakdowns, increased stress, distractions, disconnectedness, and even health issues. These problems could possibly translate to the classroom.
Do the benefits of the new program outweigh the risks? Sightline asked a few students and staff members about their views on the subject.
Michael Yeakey, the junior and senior English teacher at Bethany, discusses the book The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr in his advanced senior English class. The book goes over the startling side effects of internet usage. Yeakey says, “We have to recognize that computers in general and the internet in particular are tools, […] that they are not going to be a cure-all for any gaps that students may have, and that the use of those tools in and of themselves will not enhance student learning in general. We have to recognize that students have to find a way to use that technology without being overcome by it.”
Yeakey’s reservations seem to be validated by students. Abe Thorne (‘14) and Katie Shank (‘14), two Bethany students who will receive computers as part of the program, discussed their expectations and reservations about next year with Sightline.
Shank’s biggest concern is that teachers will stop verbally giving out assignments. She says, “Everything will end up being online[…] A lot of people learn better by writing things out and not being on computers and technology. I don’t want any changes in the way classes are taught, I just want it to be accessible when I need it.”
“What I’m worrying about is the classes being all about computers,” says Thorne. “If people try to use it too much it’ll be a terrible thing, but I think that it’s a good idea and it gives people the potential to be on an equal stage as far as who has computer access and internet access. I like the idea of it for the fact that I’ll have more accessibility[…], but I’m kind of worried that it’ll take over and take away from class time.”
The general fear among students and faculty is that the one-for-one program will cause a technology overload. In moderation, however, this program and ones like it have the potential to change education for the better.
~Rachel A.