Fifty years ago, an entire building was needed to house one computer.
TODAY, computers that can be held in the palm of your hand do everything from organize your addresses to send and receive email.

Twenty years ago, most of us had never even heard of “the Internet.”
TODAY , children can log on to the Internet from their TVs and visit websites communicating information about everything from Barney to the latest space shuttle mission.

Ten years ago, “Web Page Designer” was an unheard-of job.
TODAY,  “Web Page Designer” is one of the hottest jobs on the market.

Cindi Krokower and Krystal Lomanto, two of our Science teachers, are using the Internet and Microsoft Powerpoint to instruct students and in turn their students are using these programs and others to create multi-media science portfolios.   Gretchen Yoder-Shrock and I instruct our CAPPCOMM students in the use of the computer as a tool for communication, requiring students to write and revise using Microsoft Word, give presentations to their peers using Microsoft Powerpoint, and to create web pages using Netscape Communicator.   Many teachers are utilizing CD-ROMS to conduct “virtual labs” or using the Internet to access experts and guest speakers who normally wouldn’t be able to come to Hollister.  The possibilities are endless.

Technology in education is not just about “bells and whistles,” though.  As Dr. David Thornburg of the Thornburg Center (http://www.tcpd.org) has said,  “Our task in education is to engage, not entertain, the learner.” Working with computers and other tools of technology isn’t always “fun,” but it certainly is engaging and worthwhile.  And, in a world where 346,000 high-skill jobs are currently vacant in the technology industry (Information Technology Association of America, http://www.itaa.org/workforce/studies/hw98.htm,) the skills that students acquire in the process are invaluable.  Technology will never replace good teaching, nor will it replace good old-fashioned study habits.  It’s often not so much about doing different things as it is about doing things differently.  We are excited about the ways that technology will change the way we educate students, and the way that students will learn.  The world is changing fast, and we want our students to be prepared to change with it.

Computers have been compared to automobiles at the turn of the century: they are full of bugs and don’t really perform very well, but everyone wants to have one! Purchasing a computer is a daunting task: SVGA, RAM, ROM, hard drive, floppy disk, modems, 56K or 56Kflex? Pentium II or III? Laser or ink jet? I’m still working on "paper or plastic?" Then once we take that giant leap and actually buy a computer, it’s already become "obsolete." So what’s a parent to do? Don’t listen to the folks at any of the major electronics stores—they’ll try to sell you the space shuttle when all you want is a paper airplane. George Tombe of Tombe’s Business Services suggests that you deal with a reputable dealer, preferably someone you know. Place emphasis on service and warranty rather than price. Looking for a home computer set-up that won’t bankrupt your kids’ college fund? There are three key words to remember: upgradeable, expandable, and serviceable. Here are a few more pointers.

• Find out what the top-of-the-line is and then buy the model just below it!
• Don’t buy a lot of fancy extras. All you really need is a monitor, a hard drive, a keyboard, a mouse, a printer, and a modem.
• When figuring out a computer system budget, don’t forget incidentals like paper, ink, and service (necessary only every two years or so unless someone puts his or her shoe through the monitor!)
• Just want Internet access and email? Why not try Web TV? It’s cheap ($99 for the kit; $19.99 a month), versatile, and works right off of your TV screen. A simple keyboard allows you to type messages, create web pages, and surf the ‘net. WebTV kits can be purchased at Kmart or Target right here in town. Learn more about WebTV by checking out their website: http://www.webtv.com or by calling their information line: 1-800-GO-WEBTV.
• One of my TOP recommendations for families looking to buy a PC is Gateway Systems. They sell upgradeable, expandable computer systems with a focus on customer service. They have a very user-friendly website: http://www.gateway.com and an even friendlier customer-service line: 1-800-846-4208.
• I’m a former Mac-lover so my loyalties are divided. It’s hard to resist that snazzy new iMac. With a choice of colors and a one-box, one-cable design, they are a non-computer-person’s dream computer. Starting at $895, they are also a terrific option for families. Apple’s website is fun even if you’re not buying: http://www.apple.com or you can call and request a catalog at 1-800-795-1000.
• Why not buy a used computer? The San Jose Mercury is a great place to find used computer equipment for bargain prices. Just be sure to bring along a "tech buddy" who can check things out for you. I never buy any used equipment unless the seller has the original documentation (directions, warranty, etc.)
• Just can’t afford a computer right now? Local access is everywhere. The SBHS library is open after school until 4:00 and every evening (Monday-Thursday) from 7:00-9:00. The San Benito Public Library charges a nominal fee for computer use.