the comp delusion? (blogpost 11)

We read The Computer Delusion for class, and I must say, I don't think it's all that relevant anymore. It is definitely an interesting piece of text to read if you're thinking about the use of computers in classrooms in 1997, but not 2010, over a decade later.

For instance, Oppenheimer mentioned that art and music programs were cut from schools to fund computer purchases, even though research has shown that art and music are both extremely beneficial to the development of brain function. I do agree with him that such programs and teachers are very valuable and should only be cut in extreme circumstances. However, now you can use computers to create and manipulate art and music in amazing ways. It has become a way to enhance art and music classes, not cut them. So much has changed since this article has written...

He also argues that most programs are too complicated and only appropriate for older students. I think a lot of programs have been adapted for younger students to use, and that his argument doesn't stand anymore.

Oppenhiemer seems to have one hell of a bone to pick with former President Clinton's decision to get more computers in the classrooms, but I think it shows tremendous foresight. Look at my class right now! We're all glued to our computers learning the millions of ways in which technology can be used in the classroom - any classroom.

After reading the entire article, I felt a real sense of paranoia and contempt radiating from the author. I agree in some ways that computers are not the end all and be all of our existence, but they are a necessary tool, and we should treat them as such. Students should use computers to enhance their learning and become as comfortable as possible with them before they go on to college and then into their working lives. No, not all of them will need how to manipulate software or build a computer, but I would wager that a large majority will come into contact with a computer on a daily basis in whatever job they perform. We cannot ignore that fact and leave computers out of the equation of education. Nowadays, they're as essential as the skill of holding a pen or pencil.