Solutions

The issue of accessibility of technology by itself is a difficult problem to address for a variety of reasons.  A constant theme throughout this blog has been the factors that contribute to the digital divide and how they impact education.  Problems surrounding race, socioeconomic class, and geographic region have existed long before technology was used in the classroom and are not easily fixed, yet still effect schools in our nation.  Right now, one of the most realistic solutions to bridging the gap is through education and incorporating the digital divide as well as Ed-Tech into the curriculum.  This will not only create awareness to the issue but will also help teach and master different skills using computers and technology in the classroom.  I fully recognize that schools receive limited funding as is, but I believe a schools responsibility should include helping parents become technology savvy through after-school programs and adult education classes.  Being able to use technology in school and at home allows students to do so much more with their studies and can help turn around underachieving students.

 I would argue that specifically, we as a country need to focus on hiring only the best instructors and teachers so they hold their students to higher standards.  Currently teachers tend to feel that technology is more trouble then its worth and get “stuck” teaching old techniques and methods (Education World).  This idea limits the amount of growth students can make and overall decreases our national literacy and graduation rate.  It only takes a few dedicated and passionate individuals to transform a communities education system around and I think we need to enlighten our students now so they grow up fostering this belief and effectively reduced the digital divide (Is There a Solution).  As a teacher, using the technology that is available to you in class is just as important as using a whiteboard or chalkboard.  Students have to feel comfortable using machines their career will require them to use and that starts in elementary school and continues throughout graduation.