Welcome to Instructional Technology at the Middle School Level
This page has been created as a resource. It is to showcase and inform technologies and applications as they become available.
What is Instructional Technology? Instructional Technology is the use of available technology woven into the learning and teaching of our school community. Different from traditional computer experiences, Westford's Middle School philosophy is to promote technology as a tool or vehicle that enhances learning rather than focus on it. Learning focuses on utilizing numerous presentation software's as teaching tools, internet based research projects to develop student skills or manipulating handheld computers are just a few of our uses.
What is the role of the Instructional Technology Specialsist? Blanchard's Technology Education is constantly changing and evolving to incorporate and compliment the curriculum within our classrooms. The Instructional Technology Specialist strives to work with classroom teachers using the Consultative Model to integrate our diverse technologies to benefit student learning and
growth. Working together our teachers develop rich lessons that incorporate the content of the curriculum with computers equipped with the latest software creating diverse learning experiences.
How do students use technology at the middle school? Students have access to technology in a variety of ways at Blanchard Middle school. Often classroom teachers bring classes to the labs own their own to perform research or word processing. Students also experience lessons within their Foreign Language classes while attending lab to practice listening and speaking exerecises that focus on their language. Additionally, students have access to computers durting ACT three times a week within their schedules or afterschool while accessing the Library/Media center.
Some of the most meaningful student uses of technology result from projects conceived from the collaboration between classroom teachers and the Instructional Technology Specialist (ITS). The technology rich project is based on the curriculum area being taught. This collaborative planning effort results in technology rich lessons that bring deep meaning to content curriculum while experiencing technology.
GRT Our Middle School created a course called GRT (GREAT) which rotates all students through three 5 week sessions: Guidance-Research-Technology! During the Technology rotation students experience a variety of challenges designed to promote the learning of technologies and skills needed in classrooms as well as general knowledge useful in today's world. Sixth graders gain knowledge of basic core softwares
while learning their way around saving and accessing files. Seventh graders look to expand skills beyond basic knowledge learning more advanced features. Eighth graders become create by creating rich multimedia presentations. This systematic approach to learning provides competence and challenges matched to the students' developmental readiness. |
