- Students use technology resources to conduct research, demonstrate creative and critical thinking, and communicate and work collaboratively. (AdvancED STEM Indicator ST1.4)
Our school exhibits many strengths in terms of technology infrastructure. Our students and teachers have access to technological tools for instruction and independent activities. Each grade level classroom has a Promethean board and projector, which can be used for whole-group instruction and activities. In grades 3-5, we are at a 1:1 ratio for student laptops. In the lower grades, student-to-computer ratios are approximately 2:1. We also have access to instructional software and online resources, including access to a district-wide learning management system, Reflex Math, Accelerated Reader and STAR 360, Discovery Education, BrainPop, and MinecraftEDU. Teachers in each grade level incorporate technology in a variety of authentic, effective ways:
Technology Integration at Fairforest Elementary:
Technology Integration at Fairforest Elementary:
- Kindergarten: Padlet Example; Age Booth Writing for 100th Day of School
- First Grade: Padlet Example; Virtual Valentine Video Created for Buddies in Minnesota
- Second Grade: Student-Created Comic Strip; Force and Motion Data in Excel
- Third Grade: Public Service Announcement Video; Blendspace for SC Research
- Fourth Grade: Animoto Video Project; Vocaroo Podcasts (QR codes--must have QR reader to access); Voicethread Example
- Fifth Grade: Emaze Presentation; Prezi Presentation
- Special Education: Meteorite Research
- Horizons (Academically Gifted): Storybird Presentation
In order to assess and better meet our technology needs, our school now has a full-time technology integration specialist. This individual works closely with teachers on planning, teaches model lessons that integrate technology effectively, assists with troubleshooting, and keeps teachers informed of new resources that are available. Classroom teachers are required to meet with the technology integration specialist in some capacity at least once each month. In order to identify and meet each teacher’s instructional needs, the technology integration specialist posts a survey at the beginning of every month. Teachers respond with their requested times and areas of need.
Weekly Schedule for Technology Integration Specialist:
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"Brag Board" of Technology Accomplishments This Year:
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Our school still has room to grow in terms of fully implementing our technological resources. We have teachers who are open to new ideas and who are highly motivated to provide the best for their students; however, there is a very wide range of skill and comfort level in terms of instructional technology. Our technology integration specialist works to meet each teacher at his or her current level and offer suggestions and assistance to improve the use of classroom technology. Our technology plans are constantly evolving and improving in order to best meet the needs of our students and teachers.
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