By not utilizing the technological tools to full advantage in the classroom our schools are not where our children are learning most efficiently. This lack of technology resources in the educational system not only alienates our digital-native generation of students but also further emphasizes the widening technology gap between them and their digital-illiterate teachers. In addition, without access to such technologies at school the divide between students who have the luxury of home internet access and those in technology-illiterate house holds without access will broaden daily. The education system as it stands is producing a generation of students whose education needs are not being meet.
One of the major complications that restricts broad implementation of Web 2.0 tools in schools today is the extreme costs involved in equipping classrooms with enough computers. But prices continue to fall – netbooks are now available for as little as $300 – and hopefully more and more classrooms will budget for hardware and Web 2.0 accessibility for their students.
A second complication is the vulnerability of students when on the web. Blocking their access to Web 2.0 tools at school will not reduce their vulnerabilities. It only serves to prevent educators from teaching how these tools can be used and how to recognize dangerous situations that maybe developing. After all, we don't lock the gate and prevent children from leaving the house and yard because they could be hit by a car. Instead we teach them how to cross the road and to look for danger.
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