Years ago, it was enough to pull out an encyclopedia to find an answer to a question. Now, we Google the answer and have a plethora of information at our fingertips. Technology is an essential part of education but with budget cuts facing schools, there is not enough money for new technology.
Our school is a high poverty school with many students on free and reduced lunch.
They are eager learner's but many don't have access to any form of technology in their own homes, therefore putting them at a deficit within the classroom. After being opened ten years, our school has seen the impact of the current state of the economy. This year our school has decided to open a STEM Academy. STEM which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math is a way to reinvigorate our students to go beyond textbooks. Through this program students will investigate all areas of learning through inquiry, exploration, technology and problem solving. My students will use technology in all aspects of their learning and become the innovative leaders of the next generation.
My Project
Tablets provide an exciting, portable way for capturing a students attention. Through the use of tablets in the classroom students can work in small group centers or independently to search for information on a topic, explore a Science unit, take a virtual field trip, or use problem solving skills to solve difficult math concepts. Tablets can also be used as e-readers for the students needing additional reading material on a topic. The ability for students to move around the room while using the tablet will allow them the flexibility for where they will work. Years ago, we carried a heavy stack of books around to find a particular set of information and then panicked when it wasn't in one of the books. Now, with the use of tablet, students have the ability to be problem solvers, going deeper instantly to find everything they need, right at their fingertips.
During the last several years of teaching, I have observed students becoming less excited about learning.
Most would rather play their hand-held games. Recently, I have heard more and more parents saying they bought their child a tablet. They have said their children now are more engaged in reading and are eagerly practicing additional academic skills . My hope is through the use of these tablets and some fun, interactive teaching, my students will become eager life-long problem solvers.
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