Technology

Students will be provided devices (iPods, iPads, laptops, etc) to support and enhance their learning.  Here are some beliefs around the integration of technology.

• Students must learn to use technology as a tool for life and productivity, as digital literacy is an essential 21st Century Skill.

• Students must learn digital citizenship skills.

• Students should have the opportunity to experience real world learning whenever possible, physically interacting with people and materials. Technology cannot replace this.

• Technology is an amazing tool to bring real world learning to students when "real experiences" are not possible (skype interviews with experts, videos and pictures of places in different parts of the world, digital field trips, etc.).

• The use of technology should be rich and purposeful, providing students the opportunity to research, organize information, create, explore, collaborate, and make their learning visible.

• Technology should never replace the teacher or the instructional process.

• Technology should not be used simply to fill instructional time; it's use should always be purposeful.

• Technology should not used to provide digital, 21st Century versions of 20th Century worksheets (low-level thinking activities). With that said, some digital platforms give some engaging options for practicing skills.