Technology
We are committed to providing students with a solid foundation in computer based technology and theory so that they can adapt to ever-changing software, equipment, and applications. Throughout the curriculum, there exists a common goal of helping students unlock the potential of technology to prepare them for a lifetime of learning. Technology offerings include 3-D Computer Programming using Alice, Intro to Robotics, and several independent study courses.
Dedicated computing classes and cross-curricular applications of technology support students as they develop from young recipients of knowledge to mature innovators capable of creating new products.
All teachers have access to the library’s PC computer lab, the junior high computer lab, a wireless laptop lab, data collection devices such as Vernier technology, an Osprey web camera, and a stationary weather station, which provides data for any teacher across all curricula. This semester an iPad lab has been added for student use. All classrooms have LCD projectors and wireless internet access. There is a Mac lab for yearbook production and for graphics classes. The use of document cameras and interactive white boards is commonplace.
The iPad Digital Media Project
This spring, Upper School English Teacher Valerie Williams developed a project based learning assignment with two of her high school English classes. Students in Mrs. Williams’ classes created digital media projects using iPads as part of their research paper. We asked Mrs. Williams to share her experiences and her grading rubric for this assignment.
What inspired you to try this project?
My students inspired me to try this project. Technology sustains itself as an integral part of their life. For high school teachers to ignore it in favor of practices that may eventually become less important (or dare I say it - obsolete in their lives) functions as a disservice to our students and the world they actually live in. So many of our students rely on technology for entertainment purposes, I say it’s about time we shift the focus to academic objectives and the responsible use of technology.
Read the entire interview with Mrs. Williams...