As technology like cell phones and iPods become increasingly prevalent in daily life, and almost necessary for many activities, Fairfax County schools might have more trouble banning their presence in the classroom. So instead of preventing them from ever leaving your pocket, Superintendent Jack Dale proposes a much different solution.
“We’re trying to figure out how to use cell phones for education,” said Dale. “iPods and phones are being used in some of our schools to enhance education. They’re useful in math and science classes with all their available apps.” He went on to explain that “We have to recognize that cell phones are a very powerful tool.”
But maybe too powerful, as junior Amber Bennett explains. “If they weren’t school funded, it would make it harder to discourage students from using the technology inappropriately during school,” Bennett said. “Also, not everyone has an iPod or a phone with a data plan.”
In addition to using these technological devices in a school setting, Dale also wants to use their driving source: the Internet. In a recent survey taken by FCPS, it was discovered that 98 percent of students have computer and Internet access. “Whether that access means that everyone in the house shares one computer or if everyone has multiple computers is unclear,” Dale explains. He wants to change that, proposing to set up cell towers at schools and stretching out towards the community. “We want students to have free, 24/7 access to the Internet,” said Dale.
Looking towards the future, Dale is considering piloting more online resources to schools, like online textbooks and courses, in the hopes that maybe in a few years, school can be moved primarily online. However, he first wants to know what students think of the idea of possibly modeling the format of some online colleges, where courses are mainly available online as well as in a tangible institution.
“It would make the ability to access education a lot easier,” said senior T.J. Harbaugh. “And I think that overall it would be a great idea and would be a lot better than it is now. But it could take away from the social aspect from being in a physical building.” He goes on to conclude that despite its “ups and downs” that it overall would be for the better.
Sophomore Kevin Tan agrees, but is slightly more skeptical about how it could function large-scale. “I like the idea, but there could be a ton of problems with cheating, skipping, and false impersonations.”
Despite some possible technological setbacks, Dale is hopeful for the future incorporation of modern technology with education. “Just look at phones from now to 10 years ago, when you were in 3rd grade, taking your first SOL,” Dale said. “It’s night and day.”