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» Integrated Technology » Technology Links |
Technology Enhanced Curriculum Educational Technology Kyrene has a unique way of integrating technology within its curriculum, thus empowering teachers to improve student achievement through the use of a variety of technology tools. Instead of computers being available during a limited lab time, technology is an integral part the curriculum and “built into” the daily lesson plans of all subjects, including math and reading to music and art. While there are computer labs at every school, Kyrene believes that the teachable moment doesn’t always occur on a computer lab schedule and thus flexible technology is provided in the classrooms. Much like a pencil and paper, teachers and children have daily access to these powerful tools―giving them added advantages in both learning and technical proficiency. » SmartBoards in the classroom (Cronkite NewsWatch) All students utilize technology tools...everyday! Throughout the entire district, every K-8 classrooms is enhanced with 5-8 wireless laptop computers, a projector, and a document camera so that students have hands-on access to technology as part of their everyday instruction and learning. Kindergarten and First Grade classroom also have interactive whiteboards called SmartBoards. Students use industry-standard word processor and spread sheet programs, specialized graphics and education software, and web-based applications and information sources. Teachers participate in regular staff development and mentoring programs to help them to better use these incredible tools. The availability of these technology resources helps teachers to teach students as a whole class, in flexible work stations, as small groups, or as individuals —thus helping to capture the teachable moment in ways not possible before. Students use computers to gather, access, and create information; to organize and analyze information; and to record and communicate their ideas. They also present their own creative solutions to the class via the projector and document camera. Plus, every student many students creates a portable electronic portfolio of their yearly schoolwork for parents to review. This truly demonstrates that in Kyrene classrooms it's not the stuff that counts – it’s what you do with it that matters!
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