TopicQuestionBrainstorm

An argument for why we should have enough computers (laptops) in every social studies classroom for every student. - utilize Web 2.0 tools (technology) - Students can create a Personal Information Space and utilize at beginning of class daily. - Allows for more inquiry-based learning, research tasks. - Use the computers to teach kids how to research - see Head's data on student information seeking skills. - A Google a Day or other online lessons giving kids practice in searching. - Students learn by doing; watching the teacher go through the motions in front of the classroom is not as good as the students being able to explore on their own computers. - Recall is greater with a hands-on approach. Kinesthetic learning, not just visual and auditory. - Teachers spend less time lecturing and more time facilitating student collaboration. - allows students simultaneous access, promoting collaboration and efficiency. - immediate access to primary sources, maps, etc. (look into this further) - virtual field trips where each student could explore what they want from the site at his/her own pace. - interactive maps/historical sites - interviews via e-mail, social networking or Skype with authors, historical societies, museums, politicians, etc. (expert resources via internet and e-mail) - Project-based learning 

Plus if they are required to do most of the computer work at home, they are not getting that critical instruction on how to utilize these tools best. They’re left to their own devices and what they know, again. The teacher is not there to intervene. Minimal learning takes place and mistakes are repeated again and again. See //Flipping// arguments.

http://www.only2clicks.com/pages/joycevalenza/424061 "Wow! Thanks Joyce--this resource is AMAZING! It is essentially a digital library of everything a teacher could possibly need. Why does anyone buy textbooks anymore?--this is why every kid needs a laptop." - Katie Quimby 11/18/12

- some students don't have access to computers at home (equality) Students can work on the computers before or after school in the classroom at teacher's discretion. - we can't all be in the library or computer lab at the same time (scheduling)(equipment) - if you only have access to the lab for limited time (competition, travel time), it may be difficult to engage the students in long term projects. If students need the librarians help, they can take the laptop with them to the library - saves time logging on and loading up even if a computer is available. - time wasted traveling to the computers "Technology integration in the classroom becomes a constant thing if the equipment is easily accessible, rather than something relegated to special projects because you must make a trek to the computer lab to get online." - filters, some programs blocked

Arguments against: Too expensive, not cost-effective. Kids will get off task.
 * I can think of other things that $ is spent on that do not have the benefit computers in the social studies classroom would for students.
 * Grant from Microsoft? Other companies?
 * Other grants?
 * Parents/Fundraisers?
 * teacher monitoring
 * screen-watching software for teacher
 * punishment if off task - if they are busted on a site they shouldn't be on, the work is still due but must be completed in ink.
 * they can get off task doing paperwork or other work too; it's their choice - they are still responsible for their work and classroom performance no matter what tools are being used.