LAMOIllE UNION'S ONE-TO-ONE PROGRAM
Some Points to Consider:
Serving a community of learners preparing for the demands of today and the challenges of tomorrow.
Equity-We don’t want our students falling behind because the lack access to devices. In order to face the demands of today and the challenges of tomorrow, students need to access materials, digital tools, and each other beyond the school day. No longer does the learning stop when students put notebooks and textbooks aside and step outside the classroom. Today’s students demand access to information and digital tools when and where they want. Students who don’t have that access are at a disadvantage and we need to do what we can to remedy this inequity.
The changing landscape of our world requires a different skill set than was required just a decade ago. Students must embrace problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and technological literacy. Graduates need to be able to quickly synthesize and communicate information, collaborate with colleagues, not just within their own organization, but within a global community.
24/7 access to a device that has the ability to go online should not be reserved for students in other counties.
Assessment and evaluation- Student performance can be tracked and more comprehensively analyzed. iPads allow teachers to do formative assessments and collect data efficiently. These assessments might include online discussions, instantly graded polls and quizzes, and even reflections. A recent French class used the video camera on the iPad to collect and evaluate accent and oral speaking skills. Capturing this and having the ability to discuss this with students adds to the value of the assessment and makes for more effective learning.
Research- Although there is research emerging that shows that one-to-one programs can increase test scores, it might be more important to consider the idea that learning happens in new and different ways and that students need the tools and skills to show deeper thinking and insight in a different ways. A recent Lamoille student explained that his interview for an Ivy League university was conducted via Skype. Soon students may be asked to add video portfolios to these applications. Access to tools that can help students learn how to effectively and efficiently communicate with digital media is essential.
Textbook Replacement- Although alluring, replacing a textbook with a digital device is not really a savings. Subscriptions to digital textbooks do carry a cost and schools are often not able to pass these texts on to students taking the course the following year. However, digital textbooks tend to be more interactive and some schools are exploring having teachers create digital textbooks of their own. This allows teachers to personalize and customize what they do.
Economic Considerations- A one-to-one iPad initiative may make Lamoille more attractive to students who have school choice. Already, Lamoille is an excellent option for students who want a “full-service” high school experience. A remarkable drama program and successful athletic program combined with an innovative one-to-one initiative makes Lamoille a highly competitive option for many students.
Pedagogy- A one-to-one initiative provides teachers and students a unique opportunity to rethink past-practice and modify what they do. Many schools who have implemented one-to-one programs have seen more personalized learning, more project-based learning, and increased opportunities for communication.
Universal Design for Learning- Some students learn better with the help of a digital device. Text-to-speech, and speech-to-text apps are just a few of the tools that allow students who have trouble with text based assignments communicate their ideas. Other apps help support reading. Students can look up definitions and meanings with the tap of a finger. In a one-to-one environment all students can have access to these tools without being singled out or going without. It is a design that allows more universal access to learning.
Schools and Society- At times schools lag behind society. The use of digital devices like iPads are part of a new definition of ‘basic workplace skills’. Keeping our school as relevant and realistic as possible helps keep students engaged and interested in school.