Week 3 Essential Question: How can you provide equal access to the digital world to all learners?

When I read this essential question, it was hard for me to try and find an answer.  There is just a vast variety of students in a classroom that the only true way I could think of in regards to ensuring all learners have access to the digital world would be through computer labs or resources that are within the school.  I do not think there is every truly going to be an "equal access" for every student due to money and restraints.  For instance, we discussed using Smartphones in the classroom, but in a second grade classroom where children do not have phones that would not be plausible.  As I think about the older students as well, some of them I am sure do not have internet access or only have an allotted amount they can use within a month unless they tap into a wireless network.

In general, I thought this was a difficult question because some children have the privilege of having Smartphones, internet access at home, and technological devices to use while others do not.  I definitely think having iPads in the room would have decrease the barrier that some children have allowing all or groups of children to use them in order to access the internet for educational purposes.  It is a quick and efficient way to get on the web without having to download an entire profile.  Children can use them on the go. In addition, there are some really great applications on there that students could utilize to create a project, help with a concept being taught in school, gain information, practice skills, and the list continues of all the positive outcomes that can come from a great piece of technology.

In conclusion, in order for all children to have "equal" access to the digital world, I think it has to come from the school and the resources that are given to the students.  With the economy the way that it is, I find it difficult for some of my students to even go on the website Xtramath.org to practice their math facts because they do not have a computer or they do not have internet at home.  Some of my students even tell me that their parents tell them internet and computers are for adults only.  That's reality and as a result I allow them time in the classroom on my computer, but its hard with 23 students and 2 computers.