MESSAGE
| DATE | 2003-05-20 |
| FROM | Ruben Safir Secretary NYLXS
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| SUBJECT | Re: [hangout] Alt schools demo
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> there are a few realities of this the reason why they are using it is
they are pragmatists. the teachers teaching it come from backrounds in
english and math not computer science so when they are offered a quick
easy solution to learn it and are given the curiculum for $3K and are
alowed to issue their kids national recognized certifications for only
$500 per teacher per year they jump at the chance. <
This is part of the problem and not part of a solution. Teachers need
to have a fundemental background on computers, just as they do math even if
they teach english. Teachers can not continue to duck behind this line
of thinking and still consider themselves professional educators. These
systems are here to stay, and the fundementals of them was taught to me
in public school when I was 6. We need teachers to get up to speed if
we expect them to be modern educators.
<very intrested in using linux desktops for the class for a multitude of
reasons espesialy for the java programing part of the program.>>
There is no point in teaching children Java unless children first understand the
basics of digital systems. By the time these kids graduate College, Java very
well might not exist as an important venue for programming. This is the fundemental
problem that we are going to have to work with your staff and other teachers in
understanding. Computer Sciences need to become integrated into the
regular curuclum just as Algebra and Foriegn Language is.
When I teach my Perl program, its emphasis is on programming fundementals in
the general, with Perl being used as an example language.
We need the next generation to become empowered through these systems, and not
enslaved by vendors of these. Knowledge is power. And these kids deserve a
fundemental education in these basics.
The fundementals of programming and computer sciences is understandable by all
level of students. It's not a difficult abstract science or art, but a central
part of the modern knowledge base of civilization. If they are to participate
in civilization, it is essentail for them to learn the basics.
Ruben
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