Top Ten Wish List

Technology & Learning's Special 25th Anniversary Poll asked readers to tell us which ed tech problems they'd most like to see solved. The following rather eclectic mix of topics reflects the issues most commonly reported. T&L's editors and contributors offer a range of solutions and a look at what educators might expect to see a few years down the line.

  1. The Multimedia Classroom
    LCD projectors, interactive white boards, document cameras, and other display technologies are beginning to change the face of today's classrooms.
  2. Customized Content
    Using technology to mix and match content from different sources is no longer an instructional pipe dream for educators.
  3. Sustained Funding
    What do you do when the grant ends, the philanthropist finds a new cause, and the bond expires?
  4. One-to-One Computing
    Emerging tools are making one-to-one computing, or something like it, more attainable for school districts.
  5. On-the-Spot Assessment
    The days of waiting months or even hours for test scores or evaluative feedback are gone. The Internet and a range of mobile solutions are empowering educators and students with the ability to receive instant responses.
  6. Resource Sharing
    The Internet offers a multitude of grassroots ways for educators to collaborate, simplify lesson planning, and support one another in what can sometimes be a very lonely job.
  7. Corralling Digital Natives
    From text messaging to the Internet, today's students have ingenious ways to circumvent traditional school and classroom rules. Educators need the tools and awareness to keep them in check.
  8. 24/7 Wireless Access
    Schools working with communities to provide 24/7 wireless connectivity to students and citizens could help overcome the digital divide.
  9. Integrating Games into the Classroom
    Experts say real learning occurs when students immerse themselves in new worlds where unfamiliar terms, conventions, and cultures require them to employ a host of higher-order thinking skills.
  10. Making the Case for Technology
    With a strong message, due diligence, and a little luck, your technology wishes may come true.