A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MODERN AND OLD PEDAGOGY IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to detennine the effect that computer technology use in the classroom had on students' grades, motivation, attitude and attendance. Teacher/student technology surveys were used to measure teacher use, student use, and overall use of technology in the classroom. The sample for this study consisted of teachers from the AHMAD PUBLIC SCHOOL. Results of the study indicated that teachers' technology use, students' technology use, and overall technology use depended on how well the teacher used the technology in the classroom. For the most part, the use of technology was motivating for the students, but it had no significant positive effect on their grades and/or attendance, including "at risk" students. In addition, the study found that the continued use of technology was low among the teachers in the sample. These results suggest that for technology to be effective and make changes in students' grades, motivation, attitude, and attendance, schools must be prepared for technology use in the classroom. Leaders must develop a model of implementation that includes a shared vision among teachers and leaders and includes entire school community involvement. They must also offer consistent and specific training for staff, time during the school day for the training, a full-time technology director, and time for the staff to communicate and share with peers for technology to be an effective tool in the classroom curriculum.