The use of computers in classrooms has been on the rise. The push to integrate what is called Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the curriculum seems to be across the board, with all subject areas required to officially or unofficially use computers as learning tools to the maximum possible extent.
It is true that in today's world young people need to be able to operate computers. Many jobs require computer skills that may include word processing, using a spreadsheet, finding files and so on. Some hardware skills like knowing what plug goes where or being able to clear a jammed printer may also be required. It may even be that skills with photo editing or video software will be required.
However, the current employment of computers in education is going way past these basic skills. The Victorian Institute of Teaching which is a Government organization in Australia stated "There are many avenues for combining the use of video games with classroom curriculum." (March edition of iTeach 2008). In that same article they then give examples of using computer games to teach math and English course content and justify this by saying that the students are more engaged that way. It may be true that students are more focused when playing games than when required to do other classroom work, but there are significant issues that extended use of computers does not address.
The first is being able to concentrate on a task without needing constant distraction and entertainment. Preparing young people for life in society is a major function of schools. When children who are currently in school become young adults they will need to be able to focus on a task or master a skill without being entertained to do so. They will need to do this of their own accord or suffer the consequences. Young people need to learn concentration and application while in school. It is socially irresponsible to send young people into society without this skill.
The second important issue is the development of basic skills. Application and effort are needed to master basics like multiplication facts, addition skills, grammar and so on. Many aspects of these skills require memorization and this can only occur if children are in a quiet and calm environment. Computer games provide kids with rapidly shifting screen images and distracting audio content, which is the complete opposite of the environment required for that learning.
Using computer games for education is the complete opposite of the traditional "sit down, be quiet and get on with your work" approach. We are running the risk of turning schools into entertainment zones where children are occupied rather than instructed. If continued, education will become a circus with ever diminishing standards of learning. This will leave our children without the skills they need to survive in and contribute to society.
There is no doubt that computer skills need to be taught at school. But for the sake of our children we need to limit their use to teaching those skills required in the workplace. It is not acceptable to use computers as babysitters and justify this by saying that they are more focused and better behaved when they are in front of the screen.
About the Author:
Teach your kids the old fashioned way with free and easy experiments in the Solar Energy Education section of Roger Vanderlely's website. You'll also find plenty of math help to encourage basic skills in this vital area of study.
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