A standard is defined as a "level of quality or attainment." As I looked over the National Education and Technology Standards (NETS) for administrators, teachers, and students I was immediately reminded of how education is rooted in idealism--the fact that we pursue teaching and education in order to realize our concept that fundamentally, education is integral to quality of life--that being the most meaningful engagement possible. I know I hold the ideal that I want to impact kid's lives in an essential manner--inspiring them to greater curiosity, participation, and interest. Technology as a tool for education is a relatively recent phenomenon, and education has had to play 'catch up' in order to keep pace. In fact, as is reflected in the Oppenheimer book, The Flickering Mind, the pace of innovation is such that schools have spent millions of dollars on computers and software that become obsolete in four or five years. Nevertheless, the use of computers in schools is ubiquitous and it is the responsibility of administrators and teachers to become as fluent in their use as possible. I think the NETS standards provide an applicable framework for realizing the use of technology in the classroom. Yet, in my own nascent experience in the classroom--which amounts to 100 hours of observation and one substitution assignment (which I plan to improve upon!)--I have seen little of the kind of use or engagement that these standards presuppose. Understandably, my area of content is art and therefore, the use of computers is more of 'another paintbrush in the toolbox' so to speak. In fact, its application to graphic design is elemental, as well as the revolutionary impact in regards video and film making. I recently observed in a middle school and the applied arts teacher used his computer with projection for a centering exercise and as an effective tool for image research and step by step directions. I see myself using it in the same way, and, if i am granted the privilege of instructing secondary students, as an indispensable tool for art historical inquiry and perhaps, web quest assignments. The NETS standards are really applicable for effective teaching in general, and although they are oriented specifically to technology, are much broader in their wisdom and application. Of course they assume that every school has the capability and resources to devote to a technological commitment, both for its teachers and students. I, for one, look forward to getting the chance to use technology in as effective and interesting way as possible, meeting the NETS standards as best I can. However, no amount of technology or standards can replace the experiential enthusiasm of a fully engaged and dedicated teacher using his voice, knowledge, and imagination.
