The Issue: Brophy students use 1:1 computing practices on a daily basis.
Our Stance: While there are benefits and costs to using computers in the classroom, overall the program is well worth it.
Technology is firmly entrenched at Brophy as a part of daily student life.
In 2007, the school leadership decided to equip each student with a tablet of his own. The school started with Toshiba tablets, later switched to Lenovo and for the last two years, has required all students to use iPads.
Because of the 1:1 computing program, students literally have at their fingertips access to an unimaginable amount of information and knowledge.
Most students and teachers would probably agree that this initiative has largely been a success.
However, a major criticism of Brophy’s technology program is that the 1:1 computing can serve as an unnecessary distraction, that students are too tempted to stray from their studies because of their tablets or iPads.
Though this concern is understandable, and even partially accurate, the benefits certainly outweigh the costs in this situation.
From searching for information on Google to preparing Prezi presentations, having a tablet or iPad undoubtedly facilitates better opportunities to learn and grow academically for students.
Moreover, not only has the 1:1 computing initiative enhanced the classroom experience, but it has also provided students with a strong background in computing and technology that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
Our society today is saturated with technology, so it is valuable for students to acquire strong computing skills, not to mention how to responsibly manage the distractions this sort of technology undoubtedly creates.
In addition, students at Brophy come from a diverse range of socio-economics backgrounds. The technology program serves as a sort of equalizer, in that it ensures that all students are given the same tools necessary to succeed academically.
All in all, the 1:1 computing program should be considered a resounding success because of the immense positive impact it has had on students.
Staff Editorial by Aakash Jain ’14
Staff Editorials represent the view of The Roundup. Share your thoughts by emailing roundup@brophyprep.org or leave comments online at roundup.brophyprep.org.
