[LINK] Rudd's laptops send standards backwards

[Jan Whitaker]

At 04:39 PM 20/07/2009, ARTHUR,Evan (Dr) wrote:
>So, enjoy:  http://jacob.vigdor.googlepages.com/digdivide012508.pdf

I just scanned it. Those are some of the weirdest correlations I've 
ever seen. Number of ISPs in a zip code against math/reading scores. 
???? I can't find that they have determined that the cohort in the 
data actually HAVE internet subscriptions, let alone that the students USED it.

They need a graph to show the effects. That list of data is mind-numbing.

But it was encouraging that they came up with the same time on task 
and different skills/purpose discussion in the opening. Pity they 
didn't really measure those things. Well, they do say they have 
self-reporting of time on task. I'll give them that. Ah, there is a 
purpose for the time on task: computer SKILLS test:  "This may in 
turn reflect the assignment of remedial computer exercises to 
students at risk for failing the state's computer skills test." This 
is presumably a valued learning task in the state. Maybe they need to 
promote math and reading remedial activities on the computers as 
well. See, it all comes back to purpose and curriculum.

Jan



Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
jwhit at janwhitaker.com
blog: http://janwhitaker.com/jansblog/
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Our truest response to the irrationality of the world is to paint or 
sing or write, for only in such response do we find truth.
~Madeline L'Engle, writer

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