Barriers to Technology Use

What are the barriers to technology use in schools? Several obstacles exist that make technology integration difficult, especially in small schools.

Cost

The high cost of computer equipment and maintenance prohibit the acquisition of these items. Some argue that for technology integration to be effective there should be 1:1 student to computer ratio (Chan, et al., 2006). Yet we know that most schools do not enjoy this luxury. A report from Education Week (2005) shows that the student to Internet-connected computer ratio in the United States stands at 4.1 students per computer. 87.5% of computers are equipped with high-speed Internet connections (Skinner, 2005) Click here for a more details on this report.

Classroom Management

Since whole-class instruction is the norm in many schools, having computers in the classroom can present management problems. If not managed properly, computers can be a huge distraction in the classroom. In addition to discipline problems, classrooms often lack the space required for the equipment.

Time

In order to make computer use effective in instructions, teachers need plenty of time to learn the technologies, develop lessons, and plan for assessment. Since successful implantation would require a huge shift in the way classrooms currently function, time is an immense factor. Many teachers limit technology use to drill-and-practice activities that can be completed quickly and independently.

Challenges to Instruction

Many teachers see computers as impersonal, unable to guide students in fundamental aspects of character development and social awareness. Computers are seen as a threat to the authority and competency of the teacher. When students are constantly “plugged in” they lose valuable time socializing and interacting with others.

These are all valid points that understandably inhibit the implementation of technology in the classroom. However, as previously discussed, computers will undeniably be an integral part of the lives of our students. We must make an effort to guide them in the responsible and productive use of technology in spite of these barriers.

References:

Chan, T., Roschelle, J., Hsi, S., Kinshuk, Sharples, M., Brown, T., Patton, C., Cherniavsky, J., Pea, R., Norris, C., Soloway, E., Balacheff, N., Scardamalia, M., Dillenbourg, P., Looi, C., Milrad, M., & Hoppe, U. (2006). One-to-one technology-enhanced learning: An opportunity for global research collaboration. Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning, 1(1), 3-29.

Skinner, R.A. (2005). The state of the states. Education Week, 24(17), p. 77-80.