LOGO-L> computers in school

[Michael Tempel <michaelt@media.mit.edu>]

Dale Reed wrote:

>There is an article that you Logo-using teachers should find
>interesting at
>
>http://www.seattletimes.com/news/education/html98/comp_093098.html
>
>Computers not used properly, school study says
>

The article says:


"The study of nearly 14,000 fourth- and eighth-graders released yesterday
showed that students who spent more time on computers in school actually
scored worse on math tests than students who spent less time with
computers.

The students' lower scores appeared to be caused by the ineffective but
widespread repetitive math drills, instead of simulations and real-life
applications of math concepts, computer uses that seem to improve math
scores."



The New York Times article about the same study was more complete and
spelled out the circumstances under which comptuer use DID result in
imporved test scores:  when computers were used for "applications and
simulations" and when teachers had training in their use.  (The other
categories of computer use were drill and practice, and games.)

The article gave no specifics about software, but Logo would certainly go
into to "applications and simulations" category.


The study did not distinguish between "teacher training" in a quick
workshop and more comprehensive staff development.  That's a difference
worth studying.

-Michael


--------------------------------------------------------
Michael Tempel                    tel: 212 579 8028
Logo Foundation                   fax: 212 579 8013
250 West 85th Street              michaelt@media.mit.edu
New York  NY 10024
http://el.www.media.mit.edu/logo-foundation/


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