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A Step Towards the Creation of Educational Technology Standards

Hardware use in schools

First came the typewriter, then came the word processor, then came HTML. We now have voice activated, digital communication systems that are leading the way to more advancements in communication that are just waiting to emerge. What's next? When does it stop? The simple answer is: "It doesn't!" Technology is not only hot at this current point in time, it's driving the American and World Economy. What we consider to be the latest hardware today will in ten years be considered obselete. "Generation D" will continually adapt to this change and will need to be continually versed on the use and application of the many emerging technologies. However, in the present scheme of things, the following basic knowledge is recommended for Generation D:

1) Printers-

Students will need to understand how the CPU (i.e. connections, interfaces) directs printers. Students will also need to evaluate the cost/benefit factors attributed to different types of printing technology (i.e. ink jet vs. laser). The reason for this is because no matter how digital this world gets, we will always need to have hard copy. Basic knowledge of printers will save many future employees from panic in need-to-print situations.

2) High Density Storage-

With the advent of super high-density magnetic storage and on-line storage, this will be much less of an issue in the future. Currently, students need to be able to evaluate if optical or magnetic storage best suits their needs. Simple knowledge of storage devices will save you and your students from a great deal of head aches.

3) Scanners-

As Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software becomes more reliable, we will see an increased use of scanners in the workplace. Students will need to have a general concept of how the software works and how to operate a scanner.

4) Internet Connectivity-

In a few years, the price of high-speed connections will drop tremendously. Students will need to understand the available connection technology. Students will need to know all of their options.

5) CPU, RAM, Mother Boards (The Nuts & Bolts)-

Computer Hardware is getting to the point where even the most archaic models are dramatically out performing the software they are running. Being able to evaluate the nuts and bolts of a computer will become a less valuable skill as this trend continues and the gap widens. But it is still important to have a basic knowledge in this area in order to view things globally and problem solve when necessary.

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