Geared towards teachers at the elementary level, participants learn how this exciting technology can benefit their own district. This workshop explains how students can become a powerful force in the integration of technology into the curriculum. Students keep computers functioning and also help teachers and peers to understand and use new software, peripherals, and Internet resources. Once they become experts in technology, students are eager to be trained to use and to teach others how to use new resources. As students become successful SWAT members, they develop skills in listening, organization, and taking responsibility.
Presenters also provide methods to organize and manage electronic student work, graphics, and files.
The Classroom of the Future Web site and Blackboard electronic course management will be available for participants, and time will be designated for questions and creating a cyber support group for technology integration. Participants learn how to make mini-booklets, electronic blackboards, exciting morning messages, timers, and other fun projects using this software. Presenters also introduce the audience to pictographs, charts, graphs, and lunch counts using Excel, as well as sequence activities, fun spelling practice, and awesome attendance activities. The introduction of wireless laptop computers has fundamentally changed fifth grade students in the Clarkstown Central School District. Participants learn how to remove the barriers that traditional learning environments place in the way of authentic learning.