Reply #4: I do think using computers live is a distraction.

[plumbob]

Here's what computers are great for:

Producing readable documents even for uncertain writers - handwriting ceases to be an issue and thoughts can be gotten down.

Producing accessible calendars so that even when students are absent, they know what to do, and even when present, can preview what's coming.

Shoring up poor libraries by using real resources for research. This is like going to the library, not a free for all of wandering around.

Here are problems:

Students can isolate themselves from other students and the teacher by diving into their computers when they are used for live instruction.
It places an additional burden on teachers to ensure students are where they should be rather than playing games, Faacebooking and so on.
Places the center of learning onto a computer rather than onto people.

You want a discovery lesson, say for physics? Go outside and give teams pvc poles and blue tarps. Have them design and build a waterproof shelter that will stand 40 mph winds. Then have someone bring their swamp boat to school and test them using a hose. Have students record and think and share and then do it again. I promise real learning will have taken place and real love of learning will begin to grow, because results can be tied to the real world and the pleasure of true accomplishment.

Just my two cents.