online and math classrooms

Online courses might have been easier back in 1999, but today, they are convenient, not easier.  I hope that Stoll has looked at all the advances in technology since he wrote the book and feels differently about technology use for online courses now.

 

He did bring up a good point, however, about computer use in the math classroom.  I agree computers don’t need to be used in a math classroom until mastery of the basics is dons.  Students today expect things quickly and usually get it. This generation is used to gizmo’s and computers; that is why we almost have to bring them into the classroom.  IF the students would listen and pay attention tot chalkboard lectures still, we wouldn’t need alternate methods of teaching, but those days are gone.  Students want to be entertained while they learn.  I don’t remember thinking my classes were boring when I was a kid, but the only thing I had was an Atari on a black and white TV set that only got 7-8 channels on a regular basis.  So times change, so teachers and schools need to change with the times.   I, personally, think that technology is the way to change with the times.  Students are capable of learning more than ever because it is all at their fingertips.