David Nettelbeck

A recent letter to a newspaper from an irate parent bemoaned the fact that it is just too tempting for students to use computers in class to play games, chat with friends and listen to music. 'Computers are for recreation and home use', the writer said. 'School is for serious learning. Let's get away from cuckoo technologies that devour valuable learning time and school resources.'

Computers may not only be a distraction but technical support is often minimal in schools and this adds to teachers' frustration when plans don't work. Also, they pose a whole new can of worms for class management and supervision.

Do you agree? Please share your own experiences in your classroom.