Question: Are you for or against the use of technology in elementary school classrooms and why?

Computers process information. In classrooms, it is imperative that students be the ones processing information. As such, reliance on technology may lead to comprehension of a result, but not how that result is achieved. Over-use of technology breeds short attention spans, bludgeons the imagination and discourages retention of facts. If kept to a minimum, used only to augment or elaborate on something as a way to render it meaningful — the use of interactive maps, for example — technology can be a tool that illuminates and personalizes. But it should never be a substitute for tangible, hands-on instruction.

Elizabeth Hanson, Baltimore City

I am against the MISUSE of technology in elementary school classrooms:

1. It is not the best use of instructional time to have required minutes of various reading/math programs. Some schools send teachers reminders when students have not “made their quota” for programs, such as the Dreambox math program.

2. Using computers for reading long texts causes eye strain and fatigue and can slow a child’s reading rate.

3. Violating the American Academy of Pediatric recommendations for “daily hours” of electronics use is unacceptable.

4. Use of computers should not be a choice for Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support rewards, physical education, test-taking or indoor recess.

Felicia Stolusky, Owings Mills

I am for the use of limited, carefully selected technology in elementary school classrooms because today’s kids are almost technocrats by or before 2 years of age. Most can use a tablet or smart phone before they speak in a complete sentence. Technology may be a motivator and an interest grabber.

Lena B. Lee, Randallstown

Technology has no place in elementary classrooms. Turning children into cyber-slaves at such an early age, in my opinion, is child abuse. Everyone, especially the young, needs to interact with the real world. Technology has done great things, that’s for sure, but it hasn’t improved interpersonal relationships. Technology in elementary classrooms is a dreadful idea — please, just say NO!

Roz Heid, Baltimore

The question of the week presents an interesting conundrum. At first blush, this appears to be a terrific idea; to wit, the earlier and more comprehensively children are educated the better. Certainly technology is here to stay. On the other hand, studies are increasingly showing that the more technologically adept a child is, the greater the risk of social/societal devolution occurs. In plain language, greater technology skill seems to equate with children becoming more isolated and lacking in the development of interpersonal skills. As a society, we all must be concerned with the complete educational development of our children.

Thomas Minkin, Baltimore

A recent ad for a private school noted, “Technology Free K-3.” Exactly!

As vividly shown in the recent movie “Hidden Figures,” the “computer” between the ears will always be the most important human asset, capable of far more than most of us ever ask of our brains. Elementary school (and preschool) must be dedicated to age-appropriate development of innate mental and physical abilities. (Yes, I believe that times tables must be memorized, cursive writing should still be taught, and recess is important.) Otherwise, we risk raising kids who believe that Siri and Alexa have all the answers. Scary!

Carolan Stansky, Ellicott City