Computers merit a larger role

It's been more than a decade since policymakers and educators launched concerted efforts to bring technology to the classroom. But for the most part, use of computers at school still falls far short of its potential to improve learning.

Those same youngsters who can invent a specialized language for text-messaging, assemble full and varied iPod playlists, create individualized and attractive sites on Facebook and MySpace or display their videos on YouTube can handle more at school than delivering their project reports with PowerPoint presentations.

It shouldn't take another decade for schools to figure that out. But it won't be easy or cheap.

Computers offer the opportunity for instruction at each individual's pace, guided by teachers skilled at recognizing the needs and skills of both.

The fact that such computer-aided, highly individualized teaching is not available today is not the fault of the teachers or the schools. There simply has not been enough investment -- public or private -- in developing the software tools to make it possible and then to train educators in how to make maximum use of those tools.

The price of envy

Were you one of those got-to-have-it gadget nerds who shelled out $599 -- plus tax -- for one of those do-everything-but-breathe iPhones?

Then you must also be one of those angry e-mailers who wrote to Apple CEO Steve Jobs of your displeasure that 10 weeks after the cool, revolutionary iPhone became available, its price was cut by $200 for the 8-gigabyte model.

It was also announced last week that Apple was discontinuing its 4-gigabyte model ($499).

Jobs acknowledged the angry responses and reacted by apologizing and offering $100 credits to those who bought the -- why quibble about price -- $600 thingamabob.

As for those who first bought the iPhone and felt slighted after Apple slashed the price of the newest "sliced bread," do not feel too bad.

You paid to be among the first and for all those envious looks.