The students at Braddock were asked several different journal questions about computers. Here are their responses. You will notice that these students recognize that there is both a positive and negative side to this new technological age.
I have used a computer not very long, just like a year and a half. When my mom bought our family a computer. I would just use it for playing games and just having fun, but now I use it not only for having fun but also for researching. In my internet, I now have my very own password. I used to always use my sisters password, but now I have my own. So that’s my story of me and computers.
(Computers are important, but not as important as family and friends.) I think that the only time you should use a computer is for schoolwork and when you are really bored. I don’t even think that there should be computers or Gameboys or any other electronic thing in the world (except TV) because if you play them or use them too long, sooner or later you’ll be using glasses and why start now. You should enjoy life and play outside. I also think it’s just a waste of electricity.
- Marisol, Grade 5
My story is that I don’t have a computer. Every time I think I’m going to do something wrong on the computer, I just stay still. I guess I’m not good with computers. I used to have one but that was years ago. Ever since I am so scared to do something wrong. I really don’t have any kind of relationship with computers. I haven’t touched a computer in three years. Until now, in fifth grade, I am able to touch a computer.
Computers, however, are really important. They have all the information we need. They are some sort of gift that humans invented. The computers have lots of gifts, like giving e-mails in three seconds or less. Would we be able to live without them? That’s a question for you. In my opinion, we wouldn’t be able to live. Right now I am e-mailing someone. Do you know how slow it would be if I did a letter and mailed it? It would take like three days, but e-mails take three seconds.
- Jocelyn, Grade 5
I think computers are important, because most jobs require a computer. They also help you a lot. I also think they are bad because if you are working or doing something important and it turns off, you have to start all over. Also your computer might get bad wires and you have to buy a new one. They are also bad, because they waste a lot of electricity.
- Steven, Grade5
The story about me and computers started in 1995, when I was five years old. My dad came home from work with a box and started setting up some sort of TV with a lot of buttons. He explained to me what it was and I understood pretty clearly. I used it a lot for playing games. From then on, I’ve loved working with [the computer]. Now I usually chat and still play games. We now have two computers at home.
- Jessica, Grade 5
Computers are important to me because of the e-mail and Internet. You can type and not have to write with a pencil or pen. Also, you cold buy stuff online instead of going to the store. You could find information about almost everything online. That is why computers are really important to me and my family.
- Jeremiah, Grade 5
