For example, math teacher Mary White can use the software on her computer to turn off email and Internet access on her students' laptops, thus ensuring that they stay focused on using the graphing calculator. When she is ready for students to use the Internet for data gathering, she gives them immediate access. English teachers frequently turn off the spell-check function when students are working on their spelling skills. The impact on learning has been significant. Students take advantage of the power of the Internet and curriculum software to create thoughtful products.
All students have greater flexibility for working both independently and collaboratively.
The computers also help students with special needs to access more of the core curriculum. Teachers note that students learning English as a second language are able to reach conversational levels more quickly and to move into academic coursework more easily. Ninth grade teachers are also able to collaborate across disciplines and to communicate with each other regularly. Patty Castles, the program's mentor teacher, has assisted with lunchtime dialog sessions that focus on strengthening the program and dealing with issues of concern. Teachers value the equality created when each student has access to working online, both individually and with each other.