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3.1.5 Networks
Isaac Asimov once said, "I do not fear computers. I fear lack of them." This quote can be taken in many different ways, but I understand it to mean that by understanding that computers are simply tools that we utilize, we come to realize that there is nothing to fear in having them. In fact, it is necessary for us to have and use computers in order to take advantage effectively of the strengths they possess, and, through them, access the world around us. You have already been introduced to the technology that is presently available in the average school system. Today we will discuss the future of educational technology. We will begin by looking at Network Computing.
Networks
The first question to ask is "What is it?" Well, the
simple answer is two or more computers connected in such a way that they
can share data. Networks can be as small as two computers, or as large
as thousands. The most well known computer network is the Internet. Many
people forget, or don't understand, that the Internet is a network. It
is a way for one computer to contact and gain information from another,
or a series of others. How do we apply this technology to education? There
are various levels of networking within a school system. The most widely
used is the system-wide network. This allows all school system personnel
access to a single network. This system is used most often for communications
between the central administration and school-based administrators. Very
few teachers utilize this type of network. A second level of networking
found in schools involved school-based networks. These types of networks
are used to connect computers or other types of machinery within a school.
This can be illustrated most effectively through looking at the closed
circuit television networks that are in place in many schools. A third
level of networking in the school environment involves classroom-based
networks. This type of network would involve a number of computers within
the same classroom space to be networked together. This is rarely done
for many reasons, including: lack of computers; lack of space; and wiring/electrical
problems to name just a few.
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No Parrot Question |
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Mrs. Wilson is given a computer in her room, and Mr. Johnson in the room next to her is also given a computer. How can networking both computers together and to the Internet benefit both teachers and their classes? |
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