EnglishNEB 2078 (old course)
Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow. There is quite a debate on whether or not computers have positively affected education. Some proponents of computers in school argue…
15Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow. There is quite a debate on whether or not computers have positively affected education. Some proponents of computers in school argue the fact that computers are vast in the supply of resources as well as the fact that computers dominate society and will continue to do so. Opponents of computers in education take the position of experiencing things actually, and not just on a computer screen, a reality versus virtual reality argument. In addition, there is the aspect of time involved with using a computer as opposed to interaction with actual living things. Computers have in many ways enhanced education but it has also weakened other skills taught in school as well. The first skill lost is obvious with the use of the word processing programmes today. Of course they are convenient for typing papers because of the neatness and uniformity they provide as opposed to hand writing. Computers also make it easy to correct mistakes without using white out or scratching out words. However, it is discouraging children to learn how to spell correctly, use correct grammar and in some word processing programmes use more vibrant and exciting words. Questions: a. According to the speaker, how is computer discouraging children? b. What do the opponents of computers claim? c. What advantages do computer typing have over handwriting? d. What do the proponents of computer argue? e. Summarize the passage in one sentence.
Answer
Model Answer
a. According to the speaker, how is computer discouraging children?
The passage suggests that computers discourage children in several ways:
- Reduced Handwriting Skills: Children are less likely to practice writing by hand, which is an essential skill for learning and personal expression.
- Poor Spelling and Grammar: Word processing programmes allow students to type quickly without focusing on correct spelling, grammar, and vocabulary. This can lead to a decline in language proficiency.
- Overuse of Informal Language: Some word processing tools encourage the use of informal or less precise language, which may not be suitable for academic writing.
- Dependence on Technology: Instead of developing strong foundational skills in writing, children may become overly reliant on computers to correct mistakes, reducing their ability to self-edit and improve their writing manually.
b. What do the opponents of computers claim?
The opponents of computers in education argue the following points:
- Reality vs. Virtual Reality: They believe that learning should involve real-world experiences rather than relying on virtual simulations or computer-based learning.
- Lack of Human Interaction: Computers reduce face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers, which is crucial for social and emotional development.
- Time Consumption: Using computers may take away time that could be spent on more interactive and practical learning activities.
- Over-reliance on Technology: They fear that excessive computer use may weaken traditional skills such as handwriting, critical thinking, and problem-solving without technological assistance.
c. What advantages do computer typing have over handwriting?
The passage highlights the following advantages of computer typing over handwriting:
| Advantages of Computer Typing | Comparison with Handwriting |
|---|---|
| Neatness and Uniformity | Handwritten work can vary in legibility and appearance. |
| Ease of Correction | Mistakes can be easily deleted or corrected without using white-out or scratching out words. |
| Speed and Efficiency | Typing is generally faster than handwriting, especially for long documents. |
| Formatting and Presentation | Computers allow for better formatting, fonts, and layout options, making documents more professional. |
| Access to Resources | Computers provide instant access to dictionaries, thesauruses, and reference materials. |
d. What do the proponents of computers argue?
The proponents of computers in education make the following arguments:
- Abundance of Resources: Computers provide vast educational resources, including online libraries, educational software, and interactive learning tools.
- Dominance in Society: Computers are an integral part of modern society, and learning to use them effectively prepares students for future careers and daily life.
- Enhanced Learning Opportunities: Computers offer multimedia learning experiences, simulations, and virtual labs that can enhance understanding in various subjects.
- Efficiency in Learning: Computers can automate administrative tasks (e.g., grading, record-keeping) and provide personalized learning experiences through adaptive software.
e. Summarize the passage in one sentence.
The passage discusses the debate over the impact of computers on education, highlighting that while computers enhance learning through resources and efficiency, they also weaken traditional skills like handwriting, spelling, and grammar, and opponents argue for real-world experiences over virtual learning.
### **Advantages of Computers in Education**
Proponents of computer use in schools emphasize several key benefits. First, computers offer an **unlimited supply of educational resources**, including online textbooks, educational videos, and interactive simulations. These resources make learning more engaging and accessible, especially for students in remote areas. Second, computers **dominate modern society**, and proficiency in technology is
### **Disadvantages of Computers in Education**
Opponents argue that computers may **hinder traditional learning methods**. One major concern is the **decline in handwriting skills**, as students increasingly rely on typing instead of writing by hand. This shift can weaken fine motor skills and the ability to express ideas clearly on paper. Another issue is the **reduction in spelling and grammar accuracy**, as word processors allow errors to g
### **Balancing Technology and Traditional Learning**
To maximize the benefits of computers while minimizing their drawbacks, educators should **integrate technology thoughtfully**. For instance, computers can be used for research and presentations, while handwriting and oral discussions can be encouraged for creative and analytical tasks. Teachers should also **teach digital literacy**, ensuring students understand how to use technology responsibly
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