Eliminating Obstacles

When I was a child and visited Disney World's Epcot,specifically SpaceShip Earth, I always used to marvel at the fact that one day, we'd be communicating via video monitors, talking to individuals across the globe.  In reality, that dream seemed somewhat impossible, but I thought maybe by the time I was an old lady, such things might exist.  As a middle class child, I remember being painfully aware of our lack of technology even in my household when a computer course's grade was based upon how well a person already typed.  In fact, I lost valedictorian and almost salutatorian because of this one class.  Obviously, the two girls who were in the lead had computers at home and typed frequently.  I, on the other hand, had nothing.

Going through college and beginning to teach at a private school, it was also assumed that every child had access to broadband and computer technology.  I never thought twice about assigning a paper that needed to be typed.  However, as I began teaching at a Title One turnaround school, I realized how much technology is taken for granted and how few students really have technology at home, even internet access.  Again, I could assume that their phones had internet, but again many do not have phones nor do they have internet access on their phones if they do have phones.  Essentially, financial status determines ability to access the internet.

In order to combat this obstacle, I began using Google Chromebooks in the classroom more that were purchased with Turnaround money as well as Title One money.  Students could now use technology live and edit even from their phones if they had access.  Sadly, overcoming obstacles seems very difficult, but if teachers seek grants and if individual students could apply for technology grants, the deficit they have in technology might be less.

Essentially, teachers must use technology in the classroom in order to overcome the challenge of lack of broadband at home, allowing students the most exposure to these elements.  I have noticed such an increase in technological ability just with the addition of  more computers to our school.  Three years ago, I had to teach students how to use a Word Processor and presentation software.  Now, they have been so exposed to it, that they immediately complete their assignments without even asking how to use the program, even when it is new.  Therefore, exposure at school is a large part of overcoming this boundary.