Your Fourth Grader and Technology: Part 1

Your fourth-grader and technology

Fourth-graders may do Internet research and use various types of software to complete activities that build on their classroom learning.

By Miriam Myers, GreatSchools Staff

In a technology-rich classroom, your fourth-grader uses tools to enhance his learning in a range of subjects, including language arts, science, social studies, math, and art. He is taking the first steps to technological literacy: Using tools to solve problems.

The Internet can connect kids to native speakers of a language they are learning or to scientists worldwide. Computer-based programs can give teachers real-time feedback on how well students grasp a concept in math. But technology is no substitute for learning mathematical concepts or the basics of writing an essay. It's simply one way to enhance classroom instruction and help your child practice new skills and master new concepts.

The technology skills your child learns will help her write research papers in history and do multimedia presentations in science. She will develop critical evaluation skills by assessing the credibility of websites and learning about copyright laws and the ethics of using online information or pictures.

"Fourth-graders are very comfortable using a computer to complete learning projects," explains our teacher consultant Gayle Berthiaume.

Technology use varies from school to school Many states base their technology standards on the National Educational Technology Standards for Students (NETS). But because children aren't tested on their use of technology, teachers aren't typically held accountable for teaching it. That means computer use varies widely from classroom to classroom. Your fourth-grader may have one or more computer workstations in the classroom, go to a computer lab once a week, or not use technology regularly.

To get the maximum benefit from technology, the best classrooms incorporate technology into regular lessons that develop students' higher-order thinking skills, promote creativity and facilitate learning. Your child's teacher may also use technology to evaluate students' progress.

Tomorrow this article will continue giving more information on fourth grade and technology.