Embedded Files
Evidence: One-to-one Laptop Program
One of ISTE’s essential condition states that to effectively leverage technology for learning, all members of a school must have access to not only devices, but appropriate connectivity, and access to individuals capable of teaching how to use that technology. Since the late 90’s schools have been investing in 1:1 initiatives – each student gets their own laptop/Chromebook/iPad etc. that will have access to within and outside of the school day. Students and staff at South Burlington High School all receive a Dell laptop for use in and after school (for teachers, over the summer).
While this has been transformative to teaching and learning, getting a device is just the tip of the iceberg. If a district has gone through all of the channels just to secure devices for students, that is not enough! The critical next step is to ensure that students and staff are able to use the technology to enhance learning and productivity. This step is multifaceted and summed up nicely in this infographic from the Silicon Valley Education Foundation. As a teacher, I recognize the importance of not only access to technology, but fluency with it and ensure that I am incorporating technology into my students' and colleagues lives whenever I can.
Evidence: Discontinuing use of TI-84 calculators in our classrooms and implementing the use of the Desmos Test Mode App
As stated here, our math department has not had success in keeping track of our calculators. Students take them home frequently, especially when SAT time rolls around. Ideally, each student would have their own calculator that they purchased, but this is not possible for some students whose families do not have income that allows for this type of purchase.
In thinking about how to address this problem, we have decided to address this financial inequity by allowing students to use Desmos Test App on their personal cell phones or school issued laptops. If these options do not work for some reason, there will be calculators for students to check out for the year similar to a textbook.
The Desmos Test App was a crucial part of the success of this program. Having a reliable way to ensure fidelity of responses on test and quizzes was at the heart of why we did not allow students access to Desmos prior to this, however, the issue with equity dictated that we could not require all students to purchase their own calculators. I look forward to seeing how this program takes hold.
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