Importance of Integrating Computer Technology In Child Education

The world has become far more technologically literate and the unparalleled growth of social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter have, in kind, led to a certain level of backlash and technophobia on the part of some parents that see technology as a deficit for their children. Children do in fact spend far less time outside and partaking in physical activity from the recent past and some parents feel that video games are a part of this. But as some official sources have stated, the issue isn’t clear-cut or black and white. Simply put, our world is becoming increasingly techno oriented and it_s extremely important for parents to expose their children to this in order to better prepare them for skills they_ll need later on in life.

The Guardian, an independent UK based periodical, released an article discussing the prevalence of video games in our society. Where before baseball and other outdoor activities were the center in which many social circles operated, this has shifted to Internet based media. Computer games, once based on two bit mapping systems, are now highly advanced programs that engage the brain in a multi-faced way. The article argues that, most computer games are helpful for children anywhere from console based to preschool games.

The Guardian, though, makes it a point not to condone the use of game depicting violence since it does seem to have a proportion response and increase in levels of aggression in children who’ve had extensive exposure. Overall it_s argued that the benefits of further production and innovation in this field will only aid in the development of the youth in our shared cultures.

In recent years there have been huge strides in further integration of computer technology in the classroom. It_s hoped that though using many technologies, initially designed for entertainment, and refitting them for educational purposes, our educational system can begin to make up for its many deficits such a lack of teachers and outdated books. A school in Tennessee, as TechSpy reports, is now requiring every student to have iPads as the primary teaching method.

From the iPad, children can brows through lesson plans, take tests, and write papers. Though this is in its infancy, it’s likely that this approach will only become more common as the cost of education, child population, and need for quality technological education and exposure increases.

It’s not surprising that there’s been a backlash against some computer games and other increased use of computers but, whether it’s a positive or negative, this is the way the world is going. Any society the rejects technology and its further education and uses will find itself sorely lacking in innovation and as a competitor in the world market. If America hopes to compete against rising giants like China and India, it will have to learn to embrace the world of high tech.

One way you can boost your earning power, as well as enrich your mind, is to get another degree. A PhD can help you demonstrate your expertise in a certain area, as well as possibly get you a raise. However, it can be difficult to attend a university to get your degree, due to work schedule, family life, and restrictive budgets. This is where online PHD programs can be of use. You can study on a flexible schedule, and an online education tend to be less expensive, since it does not require the same campus resources.

It’s vital to research online programs for a PhD carefully.. If you get a PhD from a program without the right credentials or credibility, future employers may questions your authority in the field. As you choose an online PhD program, here are some things to consider:

Accreditation

One of the most important things you can do as you vet online PhD programs is to make sure that your choices are properly accredited. The process is voluntary, and any school that decides to submit to it can gain proof they offer services of a certain quality. The process includes a review of faculty, course content, admission procedures, and other factors. Schools are expected to make improvements if the review doesn’t meet established standards. Check with the Department of Education, as well as with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, to see whether or not your preferred program actually has the right credentials.

Individualized Instruction

One of the myths surrounding online education is that you won’t receive personalized instruction. However, this is not usually the case, especially for this type of degree. While you might not spend as much time meeting an instructor in person, there is a good chance that you will be able to receive help through instant chat, email and other means. A good online PhD program will employ instructors that you can reach via email or phone, and that will include question and answer sessions.

Additionally, you might still be required to attend classes in person for some portion of the program. This type of rigorous education can work in your favor, indicating that you are, indeed, getting a PhD from a reputable program. On top of that, individualized instruction can be of benefit to you. Remember that a good education benefits you in terms of your own knowledge as well as showing others your qualifications.

Cost

Of course you also need to consider the cost of the program in question. Unaccredited online PhD programs might be cheap, but they might not have the right kind of credentials to get you a proper pay raise. The key is to find a program that offers good value for your money. There has to be a balance between a good education and a reasonable cost.

There is student funding available for PhD programs. You can get financing from the program, or from government grants. There are also federal student loans available for PhD programs. However, you have to be with an accredited program in order to get funding from reputable sources. Look for low interest loans. You might also be able to get scholarships based on need or on merit.

It is important to be choosy about your online PhD program, and do your research. Make sure you find a university that is reputable, and that will offer you the education and skills that you need.

by Bryan Tice is an education writer for Universities.com—a resource site to compare online PhD programs