What's At Stake?—
Why Computers Matter to Your Child
The information age is arriving at lightning speed. Children
and young people are among the most active citizens of the
new era, and are often first in their family to use the new
media. Some parents and other guardians of young people are
enthusiastic about the new technologies; others desperately
hope these changes will just go away.
However, there is little doubt that computers are here to
stay and that they're changing the way young people learn,
play, and get ready for their work life.
- In the year 2000, an estimated 60 percent of new jobs
in America require technological skills and computer know-how.1
- In the early 1990s, workers with computer skills earned
10-15% more than workers without such skills.2
And children are increasingly using new technologies in their
schools, libraries, homes, and communities.
- Estimates show that in May 1997, nearly 10 million children
were online either at home, at school, or in the community—a
five-fold increase from fall 1995.3
- For the 50 million children now in U.S. elementary and
secondary schools, 27% of classrooms have Internet access
and 78% of schools have some kind of access to the Internet.4
In addition, parents understand that computer skills are important.
In fact, 89% of parents believe computer skills are important
to educational success.5
But parents face uncharted territory, and the technologies
are evolving so quickly it seems hard to get a handle on what
this new territory really is. One parent commented:
"...it's like being illiterate in a world of
readers. We don't know enough about what's out there to know
what to be concerned about."
In addition, not all parents can afford a computer in the
home, and not all schools are yet integrating technology into
learning-creating a gap between children who are prepared
for information-era jobs and those who aren't.
How can a parent teach, when there's so much to learn? This
new challenge may seem unlike any other you've faced before
as a parent. But, in fact, many of the answers lie in common
sense, some basic experience, regular vigilance, and sensible
guidelines for children.
How Parents Can Help
At School
Make sure your child's school has the appropriate technology
and uses it to enhance learning.
At Home
Make sure your child is involved in fun, useful, and safe
activities online.
In the Community
Make sure that the education and technology needs of all
children are being met. Contact your library, school board,
city council, and your county, state, and federal.
