Like most schools in the 1990s, Gordon ventured into the computer age by creating labs, spaces for teaching students how to use computers. As Gordon’s practice has evolved, the school is relying less on specialized experts and more on professional development that leverages the skills of Gordon’s classroom teachers. They utilize classroom computers as well as computer lab spaces to further integrate technology into the everyday work of the school.
Computer teaching no longer happens in the lab down the hall, a special subject that occurs out of the classroom. The school’s computer specialists now include a Director of Instructional Technology and two Technology Collaborators whose primary responsibility is helping classroom teachers develop their own skills and curricula.
Early Childhood the basics of thoughtful computing
Teachers model effective use of the Internet by using computers to answer questions and perform research relevant to classroom discussion.
Students practice the fundamentals of computer use, running applications and using the mouse.
Students use the computer in pairs, one more opportunity to practice teamwork in these key early years.
Lower School expanding skills
Teachers employ computers and projectors during writing lessons, and digital information is integrated into students’ humanities, math and science lessons.
Skills and vocabulary stretch into organizing, saving and retrieving documents, word processing basics, and accessing the school’s central server. Spreadsheets,databases, and presentation software are also introduced during these years.
While becoming efficient web researchers, students learn the importance of evaluating and citing the sources of information they find on the web.
Middle School more independence, more responsibility
Students routinely use computers in their work, employing more advanced word processing skills as well as spreadsheets, graphics manipulation and presentation software.
Students learn to make wise choices about which software is appropriate for each project.
They are able to transfer their work easily between home and school.
The ethical issues raised by technology continue to be a part of classroom discussions.
more: www.gordonschool.org/technology