Rough draft

It is important for students to have a computer as a tool to use during classes and for homework. Next year the faculty might ban computers from classes. This makes it harder for students to take notes, write papers, and conduct research. Students that do not use the computer as a tool are missing an opportunity in their education. The potential consequences for misuse or not using the computer are a drop in grades and more time required to complete assignments.

Computers act as an excellent tool for research. They allow you to browse the Internet looking for information that can be used for papers, discussions, homework and many other purposes. Taking computers away in class would eliminate the ability to conduct research during class. For example, in World History, during discussions, students can look up topics on Google for backup or find more information to add to a discussion. Some activities that take place during class would be constrained without the use of the computer as a research tool.

Students can access a whole new world when it comes to presenting their work. Computers offer programs, like Power Point, that allow students to present their work or research on a projector or on their computer screen. This is an excellent tool to have throughout your life as it provides an outstanding visual aid covering any possible topic. For example, I have made three different presentations using Power Point to my science class this year instead of reading a paper or giving a speech. All of these presentations have been well received by the class and the feedback reflected how much the visual aid was appreciated.

Using a computer make tasks, like taking notes, extremely fast because it is easier to type than to write. It is more efficient in class to take notes on a computer rather than a notebook as most classes move at a fast pace and students need to retain as much information as possible. After students are done it is extremely easy to save and organize their work into neat files. It is easier to carry an organized computer than it is to carry a separate notebook for each class.

Computers are an important part of learning, and an important tool for all students at Proctor Academy. Next year students should still be able to use their computers during class. Students need to realize that the use of a computer during class is a privilege and not a right. As with any privilege it is the individual’s responsibility not to abuse it. It is the student’s responsibility to utilize the computer as an educational tool during class rather than use the computer for activities such as surfing the web or instant messaging. If a student makes the wrong decision regarding computer use, their grades will suffer. It is the student’s fault if he or she is not working productively with a computer and not the fault of the teachers.