THE APPS IN SCHOOLS DEBATE:

THE APPS IN SCHOOLS DEBATE

THE DEBATE

Much has been said over the years concerning technology and education, there has been and still is an ongoing debate about how we can best implement technology into schools to the benefit of children. Our adult life on a day to day basis is filled with technology, from touchscreens to order plane tickets to, self-checkout at the grocery store so it is pertinent that our children are well-versed with using technology. The popularity of tablets and smartphones has made its way into the education world in the form of educational software and apps, even textbooks are becoming digital rather than paperbacks and hard copies. There are, of course is a plethora of apps on the market for Android phones, Iphones and even Windows phones, in fact Google has created and entire section and groups dedicated to advancing technology in education, it is of course called Google Play for Education. As the parent of an autistic son, I've spent lots of time, finding ways to make educating my son easier on a daily basis, I've used everything from pictures, to PECs, flashcards, boards and more.  Currently there are tons of studies and a major debate on implementing tablets, smartphones and other technologies into the school curriculum across the country and world.  Many believe that access to technology increases access to information.  Many believe that these devices will act as a distraction from standard and normal learning.  The debate differs as countries in the developing world adapt and adopt these technologies, while many undeveloped countries fall behind. It is currently estimated that in the UK 70% of schools have implemented tablets into their education, meanwhile in the U.S. only about 1/3rd of schools had done so as of the end of 2014.  Concerning students mainly children with autism the numbers of kids using tech decreases, but this of course depends on the type of tech.  It is most common to see autistic children using “low-tech” at school, but a mixture of low tech and mid-tech at home, due to more devices being available.  (http://www.bbc.com/news/education-30216408)