We live in an age where communicating information effectively is critical to success within our ever-expanding global society. The ability for all citizens to communicate interpersonally, publically, and interculturally enhances chances for achievement and the creation of a better world. The inability to use technology at least with a minimum level of competency not only denies young people access to information, opportunity, and competitive markets, but it also further expands the digitial divide, leaving already marginalized students further behind.
As I read Andy Carvin's article The Gap today I am reminded that "This year, 2006, marks the 10th anniversary of the advent of the digital divide—a major societal challenge that, sadly, has been pushed aside and forgotten in recent years." Whatever happened to that debate?
If there was no other reason to offer students opportunities to use and create with technology in my classroom- this would be it. Otherwise, I am directly responsibile for the students do not reap the benefits of technology use in my classroom. And I am guilty of further creating a technological underclass and even further marginalizing already marginalized students. I say-- not me. Not on my watch.
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