Davies – ‘Keeping computers in their place’ (2003)

The author makes some interesting arguments in this article about the extent of the influence of software programmes in teaching in schools. The main argument focuses in the control that software developers can have over the curriculum, and the impact this will therefore have on learning. The article highlights the limitations of the software programmes in terms of their practicality and flexibility when being used in the classroom. It also comments of the need for suitable infrastructure in a school to manage the technology required (wireless systems, in cabinets to be moved around the school).

The greatest issue highlighted is that teachers are lacking in the skills to be able to work these new systems with confidence in front of a class, which is a barrier to development for both the teachers and the children – referred to as the ‘skills gap’. This leads teachers to use simpler programmes which will obviously be less beneficial to a child’s learning.

The main question posed, as stated above, relates to the control of software manufacturers over the curriculum and how children can learn it – these programmes therefore need to be seen as a support and not a replacement to a teacher in the classroom.