Tim Meyer, 5, left, and Pyper Scullen, 5, work with a Smartboard in their kindergarten class at Tonawanda Elementary School. Dealing with advances in technology comes easily to modern students, but frequently it’s the teachers who need to learn about integrating those things into the classroom.

BROOKFIELD - Since the invention of the personal computer, experts, educators and parents have contended the machines are the key to student growth and development in the classroom.

Districts across the state have scurried in the last decade to purchase computers and get their student-per-computer ratio as close to 1:1 as possible in order to make sure every child has access.

However, while the personal computer retains some importance in the learning experience, it’s becoming less of a focus for many districts.

"For me, I think the focus is on providing support service," said Chris Thompson, technology director for the Elmbrook School District. "That and holding people accountable for technology integration."

Children in today’s schools are known as "technology natives" because they’ve grown up with it and understand it better. Teaching classes that deal with general computer usage are not as relevant or necessary because of this, but there’s definitely a need for a district to teach teachers.

For full story, go to the electronic version of The Freeman. Click here to access the electronic version.   

Joe Petrie can be reached at jpetrie@conleynet.com