Lennox Middle School has varying amounts of technology. Some classes have 7-10 computers in them while others only have 1 or 2. Many LMS students don’t have access to computers because of their behavior and the damage they cause to the computers. Others don’t have access because they are not fortunate enough to have a teacher who has computers. On the other hand, many students use computers on a daily basis in their various classes. It all depends on their teachers. LMS does have a computer lab but it is only for 7th and 8th grade classes. Students cannot use the lab in their free time. In addition, there are many more kids compared to the number of computers of at LMS. Also, kids like to play on computers instead of using them for educational purposes, so free time on computers is not given. The Digital Divide is seen at LMS in the fact that students do not have the freedom to use computers when they want.
In the Lennox community, there are not many opportunities for people to use computers. As students, most of our computer use is done in school (very few students have computers or the Internet at home). Many people in Lennox do not have enough money to buy computers. There are not enough jobs that use technology in Lennox or jobs that offer competitive salaries which would make it more affordable for people to buy computers. Some people don’t want their kids using computers every free moment they have because the parents are not sure what their child may be doing. Some people think computers are a waste of time, mainly because they don't know all the wonderful things a computer can do. So, Lennox is divided by the Digital Divide. We are a community of mostly Latinos, which should not make a difference, but statistics say that it does. We plan to change this by learning about technology, teaching our parents about it, and going for jobs where we have to use technology.
• Ideas to Enable Greater Access to Technology
in a Way that Promotes Powerful Learning in Lennox
1.Tap Program (Technology Assistance Program)
Special program in the community to train Lennox residents in the basics of technology including: software, hardware, Internet, e-mail, and other special programs that benefit our residents.
2.Technology Center - Building in Lennox for computer use and check out of computers with special computer tracking devices so computers are not stolen.
3.Adopt-a-school-Companies such as: the Coca-Cola company, local supermarkets, the NBA and other sports-related companies, airlines, local businesses, and others can adopt schools in the Lennox community and provide money and/or computers, advanced technology training, and upkeep of computers
• Questions for the panel:
1)Why do Hispanics have less access to technology?
2) How can we can raise wages so computers can become more affordable?
3) How can responsible students teach irresponsible students to take care of computers?
4)Why does the "Digital Divide" negatively effect poor and people of color more?
5)As young people ,what can we do to increase the use of technology in our community?
6) How can we educate our parents and other community members of the benefits of technology?
7) How can we learn from technology?
8) Why is technology so important? Would I really be a better person if I could use the Internet or e-mail my friends?
