At PBS we strive to weave technology lessons with classroom learning in a deliberate way to insure that technology is not just an “add on” subject, but serves to enhance learning experiences occurring within the classroom. Using the technology available within the classroom and the media lab, we attempt to align the learning of Technology and Information Skills more with classroom projects and experiences.
To this end, each week the technology team meets with the classroom teachers in collaboration, asking, ”How can we provide technology and library support to enrich the experiences that are happening in your classroom?” In the younger grades, this may mean bringing a suite of iPads into the room to bolster a classroom lesson on phonics or language arts, or helping the children solidify a math concept through activities in the media lab.
In our Intermediate grades, we work within the classrooms to provide support there with technology and information literacy skills—since our children each have personal computers in 3rd, 4th, 5th grades. An example of this would be learning to research an idea using a subscription database. In addition, we partner with teachers so they too, are comfortable using technology with their students. In this way, technology merges more authentically for genuine learning experiences.
As part of this model, we will introduce and build on technology skills that support and enhance our students' learning in middle school and beyond. Our children are going to be technology users for a lifetime. We believe it is our responsibility to guide and support them as they begin to use these technologies to enhance their learning.