Integrating technology into the classroom does not mean that you have to totally redo what or how you teach. There is no need to use the “latest and greatest” tech tool just because it is there. Rather, the best way to integrate is by starting small – find one little piece that will fit nicely into what you already do. If it is successful and useful, that may lead to a little more or a little different technology integration. This gradual “snowball” effect is what helps to transform the teaching and learning process, and is a very potent way to make a difference with students.
Month: September 2004
-
Whew!
Just about everyone’s password is now changed, all systems are up & running, and we’re back into the swing of things. The start of the school year has gone quite smoothly, and our new initiatives appear to be going well (OS X, wireless access, etc.). The computer lab is already humming with activity – I’m looking forward to some terrific projects.
-
Password Changes
This September it is time for students to change passwords. IT has begun a rotating schedule where students must change passwords at the beginning of the school year, and staff must do so halfway through the school year.
Why change passwords? Not to drive you crazy in trying to remember the new password, but for security. With the ever growing amount of information stored in personal folders and on the Internet, security of these environments becomes more and more important.
-
“WITS for Kids”
We are going to be rolling out a new web interface for students this fall in the form of WITS. It is the same WITS that staff has used for a few years now, but focused on information that students need. When a student logs into WITS (using the same web address – wits.williamsvillek12.org), he/she will see teacher class notes, an event calendar, schedule and grade information, and more.
This access for students will provide a very consistent look & feel for everyone in the district, and everyone will see the same information (dates, schedules, etc.)
The site will also have a parent information area and student showcase, so we can show off work created by students. Once in full use, WITS will provide some excellent resources and communication tools for our learning community.
-
Happy New Year
We are about to embark on a new school year, and are full of new and exciting technologies. From the SMARTRoom to outside phone lines in each classroom, teachers, students, and parents are more connected than ever. Great things are going to happen this year, and the winners will be the learners.