Technology, Academic Preparation and Equity
Title: Technology, Academic Preparation, and Equity: A Comparative Study
Author: Mark Warschauer
Date: October 2004
Schools in disadvantaged communities are moving closer to the ratio of computers per student in wealthier schools. However, simply comparing the numbers of computers and students does not tell the whole story. Children from poor schools face unique obstacles in using computers effectively for academic preparation. These challenges include the lack of a computer at home, inadequate technology training and support systems in their schools, and the difficulties of deploying technology well for large numbers of English language learners. Policy makers and educators need to address these factors if technology is to help overcome divides rather than deepen them. The following recommendations emerge from on our research on computer use in California schools.
