Are we there yet? Almost.
We have high hopes of getting cheap computers into the hands of all school age children world-wide. The non-profit ‘One Laptop Per Child’, founded by MIT and Nicholas Negroponte, is working to develop $100 laptops to sell to developing countries' governments, who will then distribute them.
Microsoft’s Corporate Vice-President Will Poole recently said, ‘maybe’ they could develop a $3.00 Windows Software Suite to run on low-cost laptops….(from Reuters)
We’re getting closer to the 'cheap laptop' realization, but just because kids will have laptops don't think we’re 'there.' Allowing students to use laptops all day and not actively participate in learning activities is not an effective method of teaching.
Teaching & Learning with Technology will be crucial in developing countries. The laptop is a tool and capable of connecting students globally. More teaching of teachers, like Yahoo! Teachers will be needed worldwide to improve the learning environment for students, as well 'places' created for sharing resources of best practices, and making sure teachers put into practice what they have learned. Web2.0 social media tools will play an essential role in connecting students with others all over the globe as well as providing additional software at no cost. Exciting times ahead.
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