Despite the downturn in the economy, the use of technology in schools and students' lives steadily increases. Students utilize the latest technology such as netbooks, smart phones, and e-readers, as well as Internet applications, graphing calculators, and email as part of their daily lives and curriculum in the Philadelphia area.
Parents in the area note the costs in technology but also recognize the necessity of technology in the classroom. In some schools, more specialized classes and electives require gadgets, though most schools don't require large-ticket purchases like laptops.
Melissa of Medford, New Jersey, indicated that "not all the supply lists are out yet. Last year my high school child needed a thumb drive and SD card for photo class."
"We are looking at an iPad, but that's for its potential uses," said Shawn Proctor of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Proctor's children are in first and fifth grades.
Most parents are aware of students' use of computers in school for general activities such as word processing as well as specialized functions such as music recording and graphic design.
Some parents also feel concerned over their own lack of knowledge when it comes to technology. While many feel comfortable with computers and using safeguarding programs to protect their children online, they recognize that students need to learn about specific school-related applications themselves.
"I've never used a SMART Board," admits Melissa, referring to the progressive interactive whiteboard technology found in some suburban school districts in the Philadelphia area.
Despite budget issues, schools in the city of Philadelphia have adopted technology-based initiatives. One school in West Philadelphia accepted assistance of Microsoft and provided laptops to students in 2006.
Philadelphia's many charter schools focus on using technology to teach in specialized areas, including digital design and music production. The Philadelphia Electrical & Technology Charter High School covers the topic of students using technology in mandatory meetings for parents.
Regarding technology in schools, Melissa is impressed with the capabilities of her three children in fifth through 10th grades.
"I think children are far more capable of technology acceptance than they are given credit for," Melissa said. "I would like to see the capabilities pushed a little further."
Schools in Philadelphia and surrounding counties (including Camden) can also apply for PACT (Proficiency and Access to Computer Technology) Program grants, which help update technology in elementary schools. The Connelly Foundation reports positive results in students' comfort level with technology as a result of the grants, though it's also clear that technology use is becoming an increasingly familiar part of students' daily lives in the region.
Tara M. Clapper is a Philadelphia native, full-time freelance writer, and marketing director at Seventh Kingdom IGE, a live-action interactive game environment. In addition to her production experience at Philadelphia-based publishing companies, her content on local people, places, and businesses of importance has appeared in HelloPhiladelphia, CultureMob, Montgomery CountyTicket, and the Yardley News. Tara pursues a Masters in Publishing part-time at Rosemont College.
For more stories in your area, check out Yahoo! Local Philadelphia.
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