We need alternative tools for assessment. I am an absolute advocate for the power technology can bring to the learning process, but I do agree with the criticism that technology has been driven more by commercial purposes rather than what's good for kids and teachers. Rogers said software companies have an interest in encouraging schools to invest in flashy new products and use computers as teaching machines. Those methods help students organize, analyze and communicate information effectively. As teaching machines, they are clearly not effective.
Good things happen when good people take action.
Now there are a great number of teachers out there who know how to use technology to improve learning, not a significant slice, but a large enough number. If they start working with parents and administrators, their momentum can have tremendous influence. Joyce Kasman Valenza is the librarian at Springfield High in Erdenheim and writes frequently about technology and education. Her column appears each week in tech.life. 1996, Philadelphia Newspapers Inc .