This article discusses the non-profit organization Computers for Learning. This organization provides economically disadvantaged students and their families with computers and internet access. Computers are donated from businesses, government agencies and individuals. In addition to providing computers and internet access, Computers for Learning requires students and their parents to attend a training session before taking their computers home. The organization was founded in 2000 and more than 1,300 students have received computers and internet access since February 2001!
Computers for Learning originated in Texas. This community model has been used to expand to San Marcos. The organization is currently working on expanding to other cities in Texas. What potential problems could be encountered when implementing a program of this type?
Having a computer and internet access at home provides many learning opportunities for students. Internet access allows for online communication between teachers, parents and students. Teachers can set up class websites, post homework information and calendars as well as have students create presentations on their computer for homework. What other benefits do you think providing computers and internet access to economically disadvantaged students could have?
Links for more information about the digital divide:
Computers for Learning Website – This website provides further information about Computers for Learning.
http://www.computers-for-learning.org/
The Digital Divide in Canada – This website discusses the divide between those with access to technology and those without as well as possible solutions. http://www.slais.ubc.ca/courses/libr500/02-03-wt2/www/J_Voon/index.htm
The Digital Divide Network- An online community for educators, activists and concerned individuals working towards bridging the digital divide.
http://www.digitaldivide.net/
Computers for Learning originated in Texas. This community model has been used to expand to San Marcos. The organization is currently working on expanding to other cities in Texas. What potential problems could be encountered when implementing a program of this type?
Having a computer and internet access at home provides many learning opportunities for students. Internet access allows for online communication between teachers, parents and students. Teachers can set up class websites, post homework information and calendars as well as have students create presentations on their computer for homework. What other benefits do you think providing computers and internet access to economically disadvantaged students could have?
Links for more information about the digital divide:
Computers for Learning Website – This website provides further information about Computers for Learning.
http://www.computers-for-learning.org/
The Digital Divide in Canada – This website discusses the divide between those with access to technology and those without as well as possible solutions. http://www.slais.ubc.ca/courses/libr500/02-03-wt2/www/J_Voon/index.htm
The Digital Divide Network- An online community for educators, activists and concerned individuals working towards bridging the digital divide.
http://www.digitaldivide.net/
~Brenna
2 comments:
II very much agree with you here that the internet provides numerous opportuites for students of this time. Especially if students are taught how to use it to their advantage. Like I have said in a few other of my commments to others it is part of our job as educators to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to use the net to help them grow as students and to gain knowledge.
Thank you for your comment Kyla. I agree it is definitely our job as educators to give students internet knowledge and skills to prepare them for the future. I think that giving disadvantaged students internet access at home is a great opportunity for those students to further develop and expand their skills.
~Brenna
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