Wilson Articles

Running Head : The Integration

The Integration of Computers in Education

John Doe

University of South Alabama

Key words : computers , technology , education

The Integration of Computers in Education

Computers are increasingly used in education as an additional tool for learning . In the U .S , at least 150 colleges are requiring students to have computers as a school policy to ensure that everyone has ready access to the Internet and other classroom applications (Carnevale Young , 2006 . These colleges that are adapting computer integration into education , however , are still in the minority

although the number is steadily growing . Even in the literacy development of young children computers are ubiquitously present in day care centers , preschools kindergartens , and first grade classrooms across the country (Labbo 2006 . While educators , policymakers , and parents alike are still uncertain of the usefulness of computers in education , it is without a doubt that computers are here to stay

For Paula Boxie , the integration of computer technology in the classroom should start by searching for innovative ways to prepare teacher candidates to meet the demands of the application of computers in education (2006 . As the number of computers in the classroom steadily soars , educational models for teachers to follow should already be in place for the effective use of the technology in learning . However , a study by the National Center for Education Statistics in 2000 found that only 20 of teachers were prepared to incorporate technology into their curriculum , and that only 50 of teachers incorporated computers during teaching . A review of studies focusing on the introduction of technology to preservice teachers showed that there several key strategies which can be used based on their effect on computer attitude , ability , and use (Kay , 2006 . While severe methological limitations were found in a vast majority of these studies , strategies focusing on faculty education and communication between mentor teachers and preservice teachers emerged among the benefits of incorporating computer technology in preservice education . A study should that teacher candidates paired with classroom teachers were able to discuss and exchange ideas regarding web-based literacy activities through cyber collaboration which could serve as a catalyst for improving literacy education through the use of computers (Boxie , 2006 . Accordingly , a ten-year analysis of research on computers and elementary education students suggested that the amount of computer experience taught during their teacher preparation may affect the extent to which these teachers will implement computer technology in their own teaching (Boxie , 2006

However , the actual outcome of using computers in the classroom is unclear . According to James Benson , vice provost and dean of information resources and libraries at St . John 's University in New York - the university started a laptop program in 2003 - only less than 10 percent of their professors regularly require their students to use laptops in class (Carnevale Young , 2006 . Aside from the powerpoint presentations and other class applications , professors were reported to disallow the use of laptops during classes as it is undeniable that they offer a significant distraction especially with the internet access...