Dist. 57 testing 1-to-1 use of computers
Mount Prospect School District 57 is taking steps this school year to implement its multiyear plan that re-envisions the role of technology in the classroom.
This includes the launch of a 1:1 Computer Ratio Pilot Program at Lincoln Middle School. One team of eighth-graders has received Chromebook computers to use at school and bring home in the evenings. The school and district are gathering data to determine how learning can be enhanced by a 1:1 computer ratio, similar to Northwest Suburban High School District 214's recently expanded iPad program.
The Chromebook integrates with Google Apps for Education, which provides free productivity and collaboration tools that Lincoln teachers and students already use.
Principal Jason Kaiz says the teachers are incorporating the Chromebooks into their lesson plans by using them for in-class teaching and homework.
"Giving students mobility and individual use of computers empowers them and helps them develop 21st century skills like critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration," Kaiz says.
District 57 purchased some Chromebooks for the pilot and others were donated by the District 57 Education Foundation. By the end of the school year, administrators and teachers will determine the value of a 1:1 computer ratio and decide whether it's possible to expand the program in the future.
District 57 also has maximized Internet connectivity throughout Lincoln and Fairview Elementary School, so large groups of students can simultaneously take advantage of online learning opportunities. Similar projects are scheduled at the district's Lions Park and Westbrook schools next summer.
Previously, the schools' Internet access points were located in the hallways, a setup that did not allow classrooms next to each other to use the Internet at the same time. But now, each classroom has its own access, so every student can potentially be online.
In addition, Fairview's computer lab was converted into a second-grade classroom over the summer. The school needed the extra space, but the change was also part of a strategic shift away from the computer lab model.
"A lot of the new curriculum requires quick online access, so we want to make technology continuously available in the classrooms. This makes more sense than going to a lab at a designated time during the week," says District 57 Director of Technology Trevor Hope.
He adds that mobile devices are getting cheaper and many schools are eliminating computer labs.
Elaine Aumiller, superintendent of schools, says studies show that students at schools that have 1:1 computer ratios are more organized and engaged learners perform better and have an advanced understanding of technology.
"Many of our new initiatives in District 57 aim to seamlessly integrate technology into the school day. That's a foundation of 21st century learning and the direction that education is heading, so I'm pleased that District 57 is taking a proactive approach to keep up with the demands."
Aumiller says that if parents want to learn more about the technology that students are using, they're encouraged to attend the Engage 2015 Parent Tech Conference.
District 214, District 57 and other area elementary districts are hosting this conference from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 7, at Hersey High School. The school districts will be sharing registration information with parents.