Technology in the Classroom

Q&A from The Baltimore Sun Voter Guide

Q: Board of Education members sometimes critique the school system’s use of technology. How would you approach technology use in the classroom? Would you make changes to how teachers and students use technology in the classroom? If so, what changes would you make and why?

A: I support a thorough re-evaluation of technology use in the classroom in all grades with feedback from administration, educators, students, and parents. I feel that younger grades learn best using paper and pencil, especially when writing or doing elementary math. Although there are benefits to some computer programs practicing math skills and providing extra intervention materials for some students who are struggling, I believe writing on paper is best and most effective for learning for most people. I have learned that educators use computerized evaluations to check in frequently with students to gauge mastery of concepts for class pacing. Removing the use of these tools would likely increase educator workload and/or effectiveness. Changes to the reliance of computers would require updating the curriculum, especially at the middle and high school levels. Moving away from computers is likely not a cost savings measure as additional funding for textbooks, paper, ink, and copier use would be required. CCPS has been forced to reduce its instructional materials budget to balance the overall operating budget. I support re-evaluating the overall use of technology, recognizing that the best balance for student outcomes may be some combined use of computers and traditional paper/pencil learning.