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April 12, 2010
Matthew Moore
In WHS, the prevalence of technology in every student’s school day is massive. Everywhere you walk, you see iPhones and Zunes and Droids. You see kids playing their Nintendo DS’s and PSPs. Teachers are constantly confiscating music devices and cell phones. However, this isn’t exclusive to WHS; in fact its a nationwide epidemic as Generation Z grows up. Generation Z is our generation, one that is defined by our ability and our attachment to all things technological. Socializing for our generation isn’t just going out to dinner, or going to an arcade; its texting, its using social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter.
Every day more and more students are using technology to enhance their education. Freshman Connor Pitta uses the internet for multiple subjects.
”I use technology to research things I don’t understand, or to help me better understand stuff like computers, biology, and geometry,” Pitta said.
However, teachers do acknowledge the dangers of technology being too pervasive in students lives. Mrs. Garbarini, who teaches Computers, stresses the importance of students “distinguishing the difference between internet slang and formal speech”. For example, it isn’t socially acceptable to say “LOL” in public or an interview, and doing so can potentially be damaging to your reputation.
Mrs. Garbarini also believes that it is necessary for students to be “able to use Google Docs” and that they must know proper Internet etiquette, especially knowing not to “troll”.
For a long time however, schools tried to stem the tide of technological advancement that was taking over. However, as time has progressed, schools have learned to utilize resources such as the World Wide Web to teach students as well as engaging them in their schoolwork. Washington is a prime example of this; computer class is mandatory for freshman, and many classes reserve library dates just for the access to computers. We also have elective courses that utilize technology, such as Digital Imaging. And at Mission Valley ROP, there are numerous programs that utilize computers such as Computer Animation and Digital Sound.
Technology in our education has become a fact of life. It is now apparent that it is not some “passing fad”. Day by day, technology becomes a more crucial and essential part in teaching students. As long as teachers learn to use technology efficiently, it can only be beneficial that technology is so intertwined with student’s education. The possibilities are endless, and Washington High School should be thankful that we are one of the first generations to experience the synergy of education and technology.