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GOOD THINKING

Back to School Edition 2016

BlueRibbonNews.com

The debate regarding the value of
computers in education has been raging
for as long as this person can remember.
If the question is “Can computers be used
in education?”

the obvious answer is yes.

When the question is “Are computers better
than, or even equal to live instruction?” it
becomes less clear. As computers increase
in sophistication, the advocates extole the
virtues of increased “interactivity” with the
child, sometimes forgetting that teachers
are the ultimate “interactive”
educational resource.

A recent article in Education Week’s Blog
titled “Online Algebra Worse for High-
Achieving Students” was probably an eye
opener for many. The article addressed
the increasing use of “online” schools
to supplement, or replace, traditional
schools. The article states “A 2015
Stanford University study of the country’s
full-time online charter schools, meanwhile,
found the schools had an ‘overwhelming
negative impact’ on students.”

This would come as a surprise and
disappointment to many who have turned
to an “online” solution for personal,
financial or other reasons, but it only
makes sense. There is no computer
program, online class or portable device app
that can substitute for a qualified, caring
teacher. Personal instruction, responsive
answers and a caring relationship are as
important in an instructional setting as a
calculator, dictionary or text book.

This is not to say that the computer has
no place in education. It is a valuable tool
that can supplement a child’s exposure to
math, history, language and other studies.

Playing Mancala, chess or math games can
keep the mind sharp, and it is enjoyable to
take a brief escape to play a game or two.
One of my favorite sources online is Khan
Academy. This is a great place for a child to
get a quick refresher on particular skills and
most of his videos are very good. If you
haven’t visited this website, check it out.
Everything in life is a trade off. Anything
you watch, do or spend money on means
there is something else you will not be
able to watch, do or spend money on. So
the secret is to prioritize – making certain
your time and money is used where it is
most valuable to you and your family.

When it comes to the future of our children,
community and the world, teachers are our
most valuable resource. It is always worth
the effort and price to find, hire and support
great teachers. Your children benefit from a
good teacher’s presence in their lives while
in school and for the rest of their lives.

As we begin another school year, I hope
we all will take an opportunity to thank the
people who have devoted themselves to
making the lives of children rich and full.
Computers, phones and tablets are a good
escape as well as a mental challenge, but
I do not believe they will ever replace or
improve on the impact a good teacher has
on our children.

By Blue Ribbon News
guest columnists Bob
and Becky Barnes with
Mathnasium Learning
Center in Rockwall.
Contact them at
rockwall-heath@
mathnasium.com.

THE COMPUTER:

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