CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT TOOL

This fall members of the DLE piloted the use of various classroom management software applications. The teachers overwhelmingly selected Edmodo as the classroom management tool which MCHS teachers will use next year. Edmodo allows teachers to create a virtual file for student’s electronic submission of assignments as well as a one stop shop for all classroom resources and materials. In addition, it will provide an environment in which students can safely engage in collaborative activities and discussions.

HARDWARE & SUPPORT

We have upgraded the infrastructure of the high school with new switches in wiring closets, 80+ wireless access points and new controllers to balance student load. In addition, we have increased our internet bandwidth capacity by 6 times. Internet traffic while on the school network is filtered. Tech Support will be provided by students (TECS) as well as our Asst. Administrator of Technology, David Engelbrecht and our Network and Technology Assistant, Dan Kane.

OTHER INFORMATION

All freshmen and at least one parent will be required to attend an orientation program on Aug. 2nd & 7th from 7-9 p.m. or on Aug. 4th from 9-11 a.m. The program will include a review of important school policies and procedures. In addition, the DLE program will be explained, parents and students will sign their purchase agreement, student will learn how to log in to the school network and review DLE procedures and expectations. Students who qualify for free/reduced lunches will have the option of using loaner netbooks.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Blended or hybrid learning provides students with the best possible combination of in-class and online learning venues. Digital teaching in a blended learning environment allows for greater access to information and enables learning to happen anywhere. Technology is a positive enabler or extender in the classroom.

We recognize that teachers need professional development focused on acquiring new teaching strategies and pedagogies in a digital environment.

MCHS teachers have been and will continue to participate in high quality professional development on how to effectively and efficiently utilize technology which can enhance student engagement and learning.

Instead of focusing their attention on lecture and content delivery, teachers can spend much more time and attention on helping students understand why the content has meaning for them. They can guide learning activities that focus on higher level thinking skills such as drawing real-life applications, investigating conflicting ideas, drawing conclusions based upon evidence and making observations.

The overall goal of a quality professional development program is to further develop the skills, knowledge and abilities that are needed to get the job done in a changing environment.

Professional Development/Support which have or will be provided to MCHS teachers include:

  • Professional conferences
  • 5 Day Tech Camp in the summer
  • Instructional Technology Coach
  • Modeling and Coaching by peers and experts
  • Working with a nationally recognized consultant
  • Workshops
  • Teachers collaboration

Where Learning

Is Valued….

And Excellence Is

The Standard

110 Franks Rd.

Marengo, Illinois 60152

(815)568-6511

Dr. Dan Bertrand, Superintendent

Mr. Scott Shepard, Principal

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Digital Learning Environment (DLE) program will provide each student with a netbook computer beginning with the Class of 2016 in August of 2012. The student will purchase the computer by making a $75 payment for four years. Upon graduating and completing the four payments the student will own the computer. In addition, students will receive one replacement battery and a carrying case.

Minimum specifications of the netbooks will be as follows:

  • 1.7 gigahertz ATOM processor -a common and standard speed for netbooks
  • 2 gigabytes of RAM memory -the amount of memory within a laptop
  • Three or more USB ports
  • Extended life battery
  • Charger and carry case
  • Built in camera and microphone

PROGRAM PILOT

This program was first piloted by two teachers during the 2010-2011 school year. An additional eight teachers joined the pilot in 2011-2012 involving over 300 students. The pilot also included allowing AP Chemistry students to have 24/7 access to netbooks. The responses from students and staff have been very positive.

PROGRAM GOALS

  • To provide each student with a netbook computer so they have computer access 24/7.
  • To continue to provide students with up-to-date technology to use as a learning tool.
  • To create a digital learning environment by using the netbook as an essential tool in the delivery of curriculum and instruction.
  • To improve student’s awareness and skill development in using web based resources to increase their achievement, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
  • To teach 21st century literacy skills and extend each student's learning opportunities.
  • To enhance school-home communication through the use of technology.

TEACHING IN A DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

The days of teachers covering a defined number of pages in a textbook and assigning work at the end of a chapter are quickly disappearing. Instructors are using technologies that give students access to interactive content from many sources. The teacher becomes more of an active participant and facilitator in each student’s learning. Technology is creating a 24/7 learning environment for students. Students can revisit digital content and explore further after the school day making the learning process much more active, mobile and tailored to the individual needs of students. Teacher resources will be utilized effectively to ensure that students are at the center of the learning activity. EMENT

WHY 1-1 COMPUTING

The DLE program will help our students acquire the skills identified in the the National Technology Standards for Students (NETS) include the following:

1.Creativity and Innovation- Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology.

2. Communication and Collaboration-Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.

3. Research and Information Fluency-Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.

4. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making-Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.

5. Digital Citizenship-Students understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior.

6. Technology Operations and Concepts-Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.

With computers and other forms of technology moving into the mainstream of typical life and business, it is important to expose our students to different types of technology. Gaining experience in understanding digital citizenship, Web 2.0 tools, internet research, etc., are educational skills essential for students to become successful in college and a career.