In contrast, in a shared computer environment, studies show that students access the Internet less than ten times a month. In our NetSchools leadership sites, every student and teacher has their own laptop connected to the Internet and the school LAN via an infrared wireless network. Our students often access the Internet ten or more times a day, going to NetSchools selected Websites as directed by their teachers. In contrast, in a shared computer environment, studies show that students access the Internet less than ten times a month. Therefore our teachers need to be sure that the access students have to academic content will not only prepare them for the world of work but that the content aligns with the standards that are being mandated by their state or district.
Every student has access to technology, regardless of socio-economic background.
When students take their laptops home after school, parental involvement rises and communication between school and home increases. Parents can now use the students' laptops to access the school server and the Internet and use the school's library resources software for say, a GED prep class, e-mail their child's teacher, and receive communications on school and community activities. Many of our leadership sites have seen a decline in missed school days and discipline referrals. We've got the best attendance we've ever had, and a noticeable decline in discipline referrals. According to Principal Carmen Zamora, her middle schoolers are more focused, take more pride in their work and spend more time on task.