Week #6

After reading chapter 8, Real vs. Possible, I find myself comparing things to my life as a teacher. I can appreciate someone else stating that keeping up is exhausting and challenging. See I love using technology but I teach in a environment where 2 out of 3 students have an Internet connection at home, let alone a computer. I do feel that we need to continue to push our students into the use of technology because if we don't our education system in American will never turn that corner. But this chapter does go to prove that economic disparity really gets in the way of what 'policy makers' say should be accomplished in the classroom. Those 'policy makers' what to control what goes out the door but they have no control of what walks in the door. As long a America is an open door country I feel we will always be faced with our educational hurdles.
On another note, I don't agree though about Non-traditional students 'not' completing degrees as do traditional students. I have been going to school in Berks County as a non-traditional college student for almost 10 years now and I have crossed paths with many non-traditional degree earning individuals. Of course I do understand that surveys are skued by many different variables and location in the country has a lot to do with it.
I did enjoy one of the last quotes that stated that "Technology is a giant mirror reflecting back at you." After all the long and tiring days; after I take a little time for my 're-grouping.' I always keep asking myself, am I doing enough for the students, the school, and my country. This chapter does challenge us to put special emphasis on citizenship and social responsibility. Sometimes I just feel like I a feather in the rough - we will see.....