Chapter 10: Homework and Practice

Are we close to a time where we require all students to have internet access in order to complete homework? As we all know there are ample web resources to learn and practice skills. I spent a little bit of time at IKnowthat.com and used some of their demo games. I am sure kids would love to have homework practice that included games, I’m just not sure how practical it is. For many it comes down to financing, not everyone is able to buy the hardware let alone the continued cost of internet access, and then the possibility of having to subscribe to a service such as I Know That. I realize this is an ongoing struggle that many policy makers don’t seem to fully understand, but it is a huge issue for many of our families. The argument tends to always come back to the library (both public and school) that states families can have access via the library; good idea as soon as you solve transportation costs, personnel issues, and maintaining and having enough equipment. Second is an ongoing argument about using computers as a high dollar worksheet, yes drill and kill is more enjoyable on the computer the first few times, but the excitement soon wears off. I am intrigued with utilizing technology to provide homework and practice, I just see that many other issues need addressed first or the gap between the haves and the have nots will grow even wider.