8.+Negative+development+for+schooling+and+student+learning

   There are several negatives concerning technology in the classroom. There are some possible physical risks that include eye-strain, headaches and blurred vision but the most concerning is the possible attention of a predator whilst on the computer. Although this is only one type of equipment used in the classroom it is definitely the main source of technology when it comes to teaching in the classroom. It is very important that young children learn how to share, cooperate, understand others, and how to communicate clearly. Children learn these social skills when they interact with each other. Teachers make social development an important goal of everyday schooling.  The main problem with computers is if it isn’t used correctly it does not promote interaction between the students and therefore has a negative effect on social activity. As seen in the workforce today, adults are choosing to send e-mails to one another instead of walking down the hall and having face-to-face interaction. They are having less face-to-face interaction and are losing some communication and interaction skills. If adults are prone to this, it is possible for children to follow the same path.  Another disadvantage of computer and technology use in the classroom is teachers becoming solely dependent on using technology. If the computer system was to fail for the day, what would happen to a teacher that had planned all their lessons on the computer or that were to be projected onto a screen? They would be completely lost and puzzled as to what to do without the computer or projector.  Another possible risk of using computers is 'eye-strain, which may include dryness due to not blinking enough, headaches, and blurry vision. To reduce this risk, it is important to limit the time spent staring at the screen; take frequent breaks, making sure to focus the eyes on distant objects; and blink frequently. It is also important to position the monitor sixteen to twenty-seven inches away and in a way that ensures that the user views it at a slightly downward angle.' (<span style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif">Williams, et al, 2000) <span style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif">It is clear that there are negatives that need to be taken into consideration when using technology in the classroom. Although not all bad there are some certain negatives when spending too much time on the computer including eye irritation, head-aches and blurred vision. Social interaction is a key issue that must be addressed with younger children and face-to-face interaction should be shown as the number one way to interrelate. Teachers should also be thoroughly prepared in case in case of any technological failure s. For today's students, teaching with technology is a must. Simply put, students respond better to it.

<span style="FONT-FAMILY: Georgia, serif"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif">Williams, D. Coles, L. Wilson, K. Richardson, A. & Tuson, J. 2000, //‘Teachers and ICT: current use and future needs’//, British Journal of Educational Technology, vol.31, no.4 pp.307-320.