Learning and the Internet

Learning and the Internet

Since the beginning of human civilization , discoveries that made life easier for man became increasingly important in everyday life . While some of these discoveries were improved in efficiency , others were discarded as better inventions and innovations replaced them . The truth is that technological development has always had its way , and today , the technologically influenced world is a prime example . Nearly every thing that man engages in today is linked to computer systems or Internet usage . It is clear that as a society , we have become increasingly dependent

on using computers and Internet systems as well . From the business world to the education industry , computers and Internet technology have become increasingly important as they provide efficient means to work on any kind of assignment , by supplying pertinent resource tools . Learning and teaching with the help of the Internet is also influenced in the same manner , with both teachers and students being able to make use of the vast resources of the Internet . While some educational institutions may not take full advantage of Internet facilities , it is known that the Internet has certainly changed the way teaching and learning is carried out

Statistics carried out by various groups have demonstrated time and time again the importance of the Internet as a resource tool . However , to provide one with an idea of how teachers feel about having Internet access and related facilities , the following statistics obtained through education technology nonprofit 'NetDay ' are interesting 'NetDay ' says that around 75 teachers believe that the Internet is an essential resource tool that aids in reaching new standards . At the same time , 2 /3 teachers felt that Internet usage for learning purposes was not integrated appropriately in their classrooms . Approximately 80 teachers have access to the Internet at their schools with classroom computers being online . Most significantly however is the findings through 'NetDay ' that mentions that 72 teachers state that without Internet access in the classroom , teachers are at a huge disadvantage (Internet e-Data , 2001

Furthermore , teachers believe that a lot has changed since the introduction of Internet access in the classroom and in homes as well Teachers are aware of most students having Internet access at home , but cannot be sure of the manner in which it is used . Nevertheless , at school , they feel it is an immense tool , and can be used even more appropriately with better integration . Currently , it is said that more than half of teachers with Internet access only use the Internet for an average of 30 minutes per day (Internet e-Data , 2001

Through 'NetDay 's survey , some of the reasons cited for not using the Internet to its potential at school include that 78 of teachers say that they lack time to use the Internet . Between 46 and 50 of the teachers say that they lack equipment , do not have proper Internet speed , and technical support , which hinder and discourage them from using the Internet . Around 44 of teachers say that they do not have complete knowledge...