Most of the computers in the New York City high schools are just about
obsolete now that they are more than 10 years old. The chancellor and
city board of education are planning to replace all of these computers
and add internet lines and an average of four new computers to every
classroom over the nextr four years at a cost exceeding three billion
dollars.
I have spoken to several experienced teachers about this proposed expense
and their opinions range all the way from ...."a totally useless expense"
to "It's the greatest idea that is certain to return our schools to
their former reputation of excellence."
If this plan is carried out, how will it benefit our teaching of physics?
Should there be less emphasis on the use of physics textbooks, teacher
demonstrations, lab exercises, problem solving, group discussions, and
other traditional ways to teach physics? .................. or should all
of these items be retained and allow an extra hour or two each day for
surfing physics via internet?
Herb Gottlieb from New York City
(Where priority is being given to upgrade our failing schools)