Technology Immersion Transforms Teaching
Anita Givens, Title II-D coordinator and director of Educational Technology at TEA, spoke at length with the author of the original legislation (and has since been in close contact with the participating schools). The input she has received from educators around her state was critical in shaping the direction of the program.
Says Givens, “Working with our school districts, we learned that when some students in a classroom have access to a computer and others do not, teachers don’t change the way they teach. And when students realize they’re only going to use a laptop in one or two classes, that laptop mostly stays under their desks. So the notion of a technology immersion — giving every student and teacher a laptop and access to digital resources — emerged as the way to really change teaching and learning.”
Once the kids had the iBook computers in their hands, they did not want to go back to the old ways of learning. So now the teachers realize the power they have, right in their classroom.
— Anita Givens
Apple Professional Development Key to Success
In addition to the laptops themselves, TxTIP called for each participating school to receive five crucial elements: productivity software, online learning software, formative assessment software, professional development, and technical support. Once these guidelines were established, TEA asked hardware and software developers throughout the U.S. to bid on the project. Many hours of presentations and evaluations later, three package providers made the final cut. The participating schools were then free to select the technology package most appropriate for their needs.
*Wireless Internet access requires AirPort Extreme Card, AirPort Extreme Base Station, and access (fees may apply). Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are not currently compatible with AirPort. Typical indoor range of the wireless access point is 150 feet from the AirPort Extreme Base Station; range may vary with site conditions. Connectivity performance may vary with number of users.
**The mention of third-party products is for informational purposes only and represents neither an endorsement nor a recommendation.
