Bridging the digital divide: Perceptions of technology education among elementary school teachers in Fresno, California

This study analyzed how elementary school teachers in Fresno, California are facing their role in bridging the Digital Divide. To provide technology education as early as possible has been in great demand. This is a result of the rationale that knowledge is power and the Internet---a powerful mass medium---has become a major source of information. Teachers carry an important role in this process; however, their personal beliefs and other variables related to their experience with computers can influence the way they take such responsibility. This study surveyed elementary teachers from Fresno Unified School District, the fourth largest district in California, and found that personal beliefs play a great part in the way these professionals use computers in their classrooms. Their personal motivation has helped them face their part of responsibility in addressing the Digital Divide with courage and enthusiasm to overcome other relevant limitations.