iBook Laptops Support Visual Learners in Texas.
Apple 1 to 1 Learning
Nowhere is the phrase “visual learners” more applicable than at Texas School for the Deaf (TSD). With a student body that typically learns American Sign Language as its first language, TSD students face unique challenges in reading (and writing) printed English. But thanks to a 1 to 1 learning program based on wireless iBook laptop computers, TSD students and teachers are taking advantage of the rich visual potential of the Mac and digital resources to support their literacy skills.
“When everyone has an iBook, working together and learning suddenly become a lot more accessible for them.”
— Claire Bugen, Superintendent, Texas School for the Deaf
TSD Superintendent Claire Bugen believes the use of the iBook laptops helps strengthen deaf and hard of hearing students’ confidence in the classroom. Not only do the technology tools encourage them to stretch beyond their normal comfort-zone; she feels laptop-based learning also encourages collaboration among classmates.
The use of Mac technology is helping in other areas of the school as well. TSD offers mentoring sessions for future sign language interpreters via video conferencing, using iSight and iChat AV. In addition, TSD leverages video conferencing technology to present classes in specific content areas. TSD also employs video conferencing to enable virtual field trips for its students. In the future, TSD plans to put iSight cameras in each of the dorm living rooms, so students can communicate with each other and with the teaching staff after the school day is over.
Now that 1 to 1 learning has become available for many of the high school students at Texas School for the Deaf, technology and information access have become much more equitable in all grades. The school’s wireless campus and the iBook laptops make learning possible anywhere, 24/7.
