Why 1 to 1?

Why Student-owned Computers (or Why 1 to 1?)

ICS had a computer lab at former Bethel campus, which grew to include five computer labs (grades K-12) to support the expanded enrollment in the new Shek Mun facilities. Computers On Wheels (COWs) have been added, allowing increased availability with laptops in carts that can be scheduled by teachers. The current ratio of school-owned computers (including labs) is approximately one computer per two students. Teachers compete with one another to schedule usage of the COWs, creating frustration when students are not able to complete a learning unit as planned. Throughout a school day, learning time is sacrificed as teachers and students roll the COWs from one location to another. Students may use a number of different computers, creating logistical challenges for availability, maintenance, and account accessibility.

Young people today are "Digital Natives," who must be prepared to use technology effectively and appropriately as the next generation of leaders. Computer technology pervades nearly every profession.

“We are currently preparing students for jobs that don’t yet exist,

Using technologies that haven’t been invented,

In order to solve problems we don’t even know are problems yet.”

- Karl Fisch, “Did You Know”

ICS believes that appropriate skills in technology are a vital part of education today, including benefits such as:

• • Increased student motivation and attentiveness

  • Improved student ability to evaluate web-based information

  • Development of student autonomy

  • Engaging, interactive, and meaningful learning using multimedia support

  • Universal access for learning

  • Authentic computer skills enhancing future opportunities

  • Promoting collaborative interaction among students, teachers, and parents

  • Individualized, differentiated learning

• Student-managed learning, with transparent, current, and comprehensive assessments, record-keeping, and communication