aGameOfThrones
08-22-2013, 08:56 AM
The program, approved by the Ames Community school board in May, is intended to enable the school to offer more personalized instruction to students. Tim Taylor, superintendent of schools in Ames, said the computers will allow teachers to reduce "one-size-fits all lecture formats and rote instruction in the classroom."
Students and parents are excited about the potential impact of the initiative, but district officials have been quick to caution that the devices themselves are only a tool.
"The magic is in giving students and teachers the tools they need to create, collaborate and communicate," said the district's Director of Technology Services, Karl Hehr.
Students will pay a $25 deposit when checking out the devices, and will not be allowed to modify their software configuration. In the event of damage or loss — major concerns for 1:1 computing programs — they will be charged maximum fees of $50 for the first incident and $150 for the second incident. If the event is deemed to be the result of "gross negligence," the students may find themselves liable for the full replacment cost — more than $1,000.
Iowa State University will also be involved with the program, monitoring its progress and suggesting improvements.
When asked if there was a cheaper option, the district's Director of Technology Services, Karl Hehr said, sure, but not as cool.
http://appleinsider.com/articles/13/08/22/iowa-high-school-equips-students-with-1425-macbook-airs-in-14-million-initiative
Students and parents are excited about the potential impact of the initiative, but district officials have been quick to caution that the devices themselves are only a tool.
"The magic is in giving students and teachers the tools they need to create, collaborate and communicate," said the district's Director of Technology Services, Karl Hehr.
Students will pay a $25 deposit when checking out the devices, and will not be allowed to modify their software configuration. In the event of damage or loss — major concerns for 1:1 computing programs — they will be charged maximum fees of $50 for the first incident and $150 for the second incident. If the event is deemed to be the result of "gross negligence," the students may find themselves liable for the full replacment cost — more than $1,000.
Iowa State University will also be involved with the program, monitoring its progress and suggesting improvements.
When asked if there was a cheaper option, the district's Director of Technology Services, Karl Hehr said, sure, but not as cool.
http://appleinsider.com/articles/13/08/22/iowa-high-school-equips-students-with-1425-macbook-airs-in-14-million-initiative