Monday, October 5, 2009

Research interests

I am really interested in looking at ways new media tools can be incorporated in the composition and language arts classrooms. I've done several papers on the topic, and feel like I really need some sound, first-hand research to back my belief that new media tools can have a positive outcome when incorporated in the composition activities. My problem here is that I don't know if I want to be or could stand to be proven wrong.

A research question that I would really like to address is the recurring issue of computer and internet access. In most articles I've read, access seems to be the main reason for a lack of new media inclusion in the classroom, especially in the secondary classroom settings. So, I would be interested in doing a survey--eek or a case study, or...(Suggestions?) to learn about what kind of access local students have. I want to be able to have an idea of what students really have access to. From there I would like to look at the available literacy programs that help provide students in-home computer access.


1 comment:

  1. I love this idea. What sort of scope are you imagining - Las Cruces, one local school, a region? I think starting in a local school might be a great plan. A case study of a school could consider lots of relationships and access issues (number of computers and other types of technology available, emphasis placed on tech education, incorporation of tech in assignments, students' personal use of tech, etc.). From there maybe a survey and/or focus group. I think it would be fascinating to find out what sorts of material conditions and attitudes are impacting computer and tech use in public schools.
    I can't wait to see where this takes you.

    ReplyDelete