New Technology Furthers Learning at Ardsley Middle School

We are all now surrounded by gadgets, gizmos and technologies that affect our daily lives in everything we do. They are changing how we read books, listen to music, watch television, shop, eat, and even drive. It is changing the way we do research, evaluate choices, make decisions and collaborate. Most importantly, technology has changed the way we learn and how we need to teach. A prime example is the Health program at Ardsley Middle School that recently received a dedicated Chrome book cart with 26 devices donated by the Ardsley Education Foundation. This technology is greatly enhancing learning and expanding the curriculum.

Technology redefines group projects

“Having technology in our classrooms that students also have at home allows us to expand what we teach and how students collaborate,” said Elise Hattem, Health teacher at Ardsley Middle School. For example, students are learning how to use Google Drive, a file storage and synchronization service that enables cloud file sharing and collaborative editing. Using this technology, students can work in small groups, share research documents and combine all their ideas into one presentation simultaneously. As students work, teacher’s can review their work and provide feedback onto the shared document so groups can revise and easily continue progress. “It is great to see students pool their ideas, share resources with their peers, and help each other much more freely and effectively,” said Hattem. “It is amazing to see them teach each other best practices.”

Better Information? Better Health?

Having an Internet device in the classroom also gives access to a wealth of information and over 72% of US Internet users say they looked online for health information. But how do you know if a source is reliable? Students are learning how to proactively research topics and how to evaluate sources of information for accuracy and legitimacy. “Before using information from a website, students must answer the following questions: “Is this source reliable? Why do I think I can trust this information?” said Hattem. “They are learning to have a critical eye towards all information sources.”

Chrome books also open the door to a breadth of learning tools and interactive websites not previously available in the classroom such as kidshealth.org, brainpop.com and many, many more. Classes can log into a school-wide subscription of “Choices” magazine and access current or archived issues. Embedded in the articles are: quizzes that students can self-score, close reading and critical thinking questions, and links to related kid-friendly websites.

New technology in almost every classroom

Chrome books are being used throughout all Ardsley Middle Schools classes in similar ways. In total over 320 Chrome books were added to the school’s WiFi campus and existing infrastructure of iPad carts and desktop systems this year. Although being used primarily for research and collaboration, by using other digital content and tools, teachers are better able to teach, drill, practice and assess comprehension. “When combined with traditional instruction, we believe effective use of technology produces higher academic achievement in a variety of subject areas. Students seem to like learning with computers and their enthusiasm towards learning is positively affected. Teachers also like the professional development that is an integral part of success,” said Edgar McIntosh, Principal. “It’s a win-win for all.”