Technology Access in the Classroom

Requiring students to use technology, specifically computers, to research and complete homework assignments is extremely important in preparing students for higher level learning and careers. The problem is that some students do not have access to computers at home. School computer labs usually are available but may have limited hours. Local libraries are another possibility but if a student lives too far from a public library to get there without parental transportation, this too is a serious problem.
Limiting the use of computers and other technology in lessons and assignments is not a good option to accommodate those students that do not have computers at home. Instead, those students need to be accommodated. It is not unreasonable to allow them preferential access to school computers or assignments need to be modified so they have time during the school day to do their computer work and their homework can be reading or activities not requiring computers that other students would normally do during school hours.
Many schools have early and late busses to transport students that participate in band or athletic activities. Ensuring that computer labs are open before and after school is imperative to allow those students without home computers access to the labs. This is especially important in school districts at the lower end of the socio-economic scale. If necessary, teachers could take turns opening the labs early or keeping them open late, utilizing this time to work on lesson plans or grading papers. Also, administrators should be applying for charitable grant from foundations such as the Gates foundation to ensure their computer labs are adequately supplied. Only by ensuring equal and adequate access to technology for all students can we hope to attain the goals of No Child Left Behind and other societal obligations to educate all our children.