Digitally Speaking – Week Five: Digital Textbooks – Are We Ready?
Schools have been discussing the idea of switching to digital textbooks for years, but are they ready to completely switch over to digital media? According to leading administrators in the Nov/Dec 2009 issue of Administr@tor, the answer is a resounding “No.” William Habermehl, superintendent of the Orange County Department of Education in California, feels that his teachers need more training in the use of digital materials and students will need to have more access to the necessary equipment. I agree with Habermehl’s statement that teacher training is a must and personally feel that professional training like I have had the opportunity to receive from DEN workshops, conferences, and institutes is the key to integrating digital media in the classroom. I also agree with John Roach’s statement: “I’m looking for a video in which an expert is giving the best lesson in the country on how to solve complex equations in algebra. Meaning, I’m looking for something that is either the best tool for our classroom teachers or the best additional resource for the students.” Roach, the superintendent of Carlsbad Unified School District in California, also stresses that access is imperative. In fact, they are currently working through their community to make broadband available to all students. With accessibility for all students and training for all teachers, digital media integration in the classroom can be a success story for all districts.
