Mobile Learning Gives Urban Chicago Students New Opportunities
Apple 1 to 1 Learning
“Without a doubt … Apple had the experience we needed for a successful 1 to 1 implementation.”
— Brenda Browder, Principal, Kellman Corporate Community School
Chicago’s North Lawndale area is home to some of the city’s most impoverished African-American residents. But at Kellman Corporate Community School, students enjoy a rich, engaging learning environment. Founded by Chicago businessman Joseph Kellman, the school gives K-8 students from all walks of life the chance to compete in the world on an equal footing. In this effort, each child in grades 4-8 is given the tool that instantly levels the playing field: a wireless Apple notebook computer.
When the Kellman School first opened its doors, standardized tests showed that most students’ literacy and math skills ranked in the 20th percentile or lower. But believing that exposing students to an active learning environment led by passionate teachers would increase academic achievement, Mr. Kellman set forth this mandate: In addition to the iBook computers students would use during elementary school, each graduating eighth-grader should be given an Apple notebook to take along to high school.
Computer Access for All
Subsequently, Chicago Public Schools funded the installation of Kellman School’s wireless network, while the Kellman Foundation leased an Apple notebook for all students in grades 4-8. Students in grades K-3 also work with the computers, thanks to an Apple Mobile Learning Lab in each classroom. Additionally, each class has a full complement of digital cameras, large screen projectors, iPod players, and an array of software tools.
While the Kellman School is still in the early stages of its 1 to 1 learning program, Technology Director Helen Ross says the transformation of students’ (and teachers’) attitudes has been remarkable. The difference in the level of student engagement is palpable, even in the school’s youngest students. “From the moment we handed out the notebooks, our students just jumped into learning with both feet,” Ross says. “Every one of them has a new sense of pride, and a sense that they are truly blessed to have this technology.”
