Week 2

Although there have always been the "haves" and the "have nots" when it comes to education, I do think the "Digital Divide" increases the gap even more.  The extent to which some schools are underfunded in technology is a huge handicap.  This, of course, corresponds with economic classes and the amount of local tax applied to each student's education.  Some environmental differences are (seemingly) unavoidable, but perhaps it is a question of extremes.

Teachers can be creative in the use of resources, but technology can undoubtedly provide a substantial aid to practicing reading, math, etc.  While some students can overcome the obstacles, a greater percentage may slip through the cracks just because budgets for these resources are lacking in their district/school.  Perhaps schools need to re-evaluate how funds are allocated and look more at long term cost savings (i.e. e-textbooks).  There are no easy answers, but this problem should not be ignored.  

Week 1

The use of technology in teaching will assist me in reaching each individual student.  As a volunteer, I have been able to work with individuals and small groups to promote learning concepts in both Math and Reading.  Teachers are able to stay on track with the entire class, while I devote special attention to some.  Similarly, computers can help provide individualized instruction, especially with tasks requiring repetition and immediate feedback.


Growing class sizes and the diversity among students are challenges that all teachers face.  Even volunteers and teaching assistants are not enough to always complete the task adequately.  Technology alone lacks a personal touch, but it does provide an aid to learning and helps students to stay on the same page.