‘In class have to power down’ - Reflections of Guardian Article May 8 2007

The world is moving at such an incredible pace that teachers are starting to feel left behind! Children are arriving at school having spent their weekends and most of their lives carrying out technological procedures and tasks that often intimidate and alienate teachers.
Children are coming into school and feeling that they have to ‘power down due to the lack of equipment and freedom to explore with ICT in most – but not all –schools. One child described the freedom he had at home to use ICT in a very positive light: “You’re free, you’re in control, it’s your own world”
If Children are feeling that they have to ‘power down at school in terms of their ICT capabilities- shouldn’t schools be looking into what changes and improvements need to made to connect with these children at their level and embrace the creativity and shills that ICT can provide in their lives and in their futures.
ICT is a passionate area and subject for the majority of children. Every day they use it as an integrated part of their lives and it has become a valuable source of stimulation – especially for those struggling with traditional styles of education, teaching and learning.
Education in schools today needs to bridge the gap between the experience children have at home and that in the school. Teachers must ignite and inspire children using ICT as a catalyst for improved and more in depth learning and improvement.