RE: Physics education via the internet?

["Lanzafame, Frank" <flanzafame@monroecc.edu>]

For an excellent review of the topic, see "The Computer Delusion", by Todd 
Oppenhemer, Atlantic Monthly, July 1997, pages 45-62.

The subtitle reads:

"There is no good evidence that most uses of computers significantly improve 
teaching and learning, yet school districts are cutting programs -- music, art, 
physical education--that enrich children't lives to make room for this dubious 
nostrum, and the Clinton Administration has embraced the goal of 'computers in 
every classroom" with credulous and costly enthusiasm."

The author presents a number of points to ponder.  Truth probably lies in some 
middle ground, but it seems to be a national trait to move to extremes.

> Herb Gottlieb from New York City
> (Where priority is being given to upgrade our failing schools)

> 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? 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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  :-)                                                         :-) 
  :-)   Frank M. Lanzafame           Department of Chemistry  :-) 
  :-)   Monroe Community College     1000 East Henrietta Rd.  :-) 
  :-)   Rochester, NY   14623        (716)  292-2396          :-) 
  :-)   Internet:  flanzafame@monroecc.edu                    :-) 
  :-)                                                         :-) 
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