Technology helps students in all disciplines to access information. More often than not, different subject areas consult the same sources. Even more significantly, in the processing of information conveyed by technology, students in all classrooms use the same thinking skills that are applied in both writing and mathematics. Technology often demands teamwork. Research has shown that the most effective use of the computer is frequently within small groups.
Technology links the classroom to the outside world.
For example, my French students connect directly with students in France using a computer and a modem, and we discuss issues of common interest. We shared a marvelous exchange with our French friends on the Gulf war. Our conversation became more meaningful and more international as Danish students entered the conference speaking French, Americans in Indonesia joined using only English, and a German class joined using German. It was evident that we could not limit ourselves to one language, or to a topic prescribed by our textbook. If we want a better world for our students, teachers must first show them how to achieve it by working together as a team.