I too question the value of classroom/school library computers in elementary school-- especially in the lower grades (i.e. 4th grade and below). Given the limited time available in school everyday, I think the focus in the lower grades should be on reading, writing, grammar (English language skills), basic math and social skills; taught by teachers the old fashioned way-- using books and pencils, crayons and water colors. I can't quote relevant research documenting the validity of my hypothesis, but I do know the 'infrastructure-side' of reliance on computers is costly in terms of operating (training) and maintenance/ repair/ replacement-- time and money I think is probably better applied to direct student-teacher interaction in the classroom.
When the school day is over, why not rely MORE on our neighborhood libraries for extended-day learning. Reading and storytelling programs, and the availability of computers and training in their use, will greatly enhance the learning experience for our elementary school children (as well as other segments of the population). Evenings and weekends also offer great potential for kids and their families at our libraries, especially recent immigrants with limited English-language skills, and the many adults in our society that lack basic literacy skills. Our libraries should be open when people can best use them, and relevant programming should be available at the community library level. The Friends of the Minneapolis Public Library already volunteer thousands of hours each year toward helping kids learn to read and by promoting intellectual discovery and lifelong learning in many diverse ways. The new and renovated libraries hold tremendous potential to assist with the overall lifelong learning challenges here in Minneapolis. And, a new Library Foundation offers enormous potential to fund and test new learning and programming concepts, and more collaborative efforts. Greater emphasis should be placed on improved coordination of school-library programming in Minneapolis, including both K-12 and Community Education programming and neighborhood/downtown libraries. Both operating and capital budgets should be examined to identify shared opportunities that enhance the learning experience, improve efficiency and possibly reduce costs. Volunteer/mentoring opportunities also have much to gain via better coordination between schools and libraries. The onus is on the School Board and the Library Board to take up the challenge and establish new directions and priorities as increased pressure is placed on annual budgets. Reducing duplication, emphasizing innovation and continual improvement in service delivery with fewer dollars is the order of the day. [Granted, the MAR also holds new relevancy on the recreational side due to the budget shortfalls our schools are facing. However, that is another topic since my comments here are directed toward the academic side of education-- with emphasis on schools and libraries.] Michael Hohmann 13th Ward www.mahohmannbizplans.com _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
