By Dr. Andrew Shelffo, chief information officer and English teacher
Beginning in September 2013, students will be able to use a hybrid tablet device as part of Williston’s Curricular Technology Initiative, or CTI, which is designed to bring consistent technology to campus so that students can quickly and easily access the digital tools they need to succeed, and in the process not just keep up with the latest innovations but use them in their education.
Preparing students for success in college and beyond in the 21st century means teaching them how to take full advantage of information technology. The CTI will put the latest computing technology into the hands of every student and teacher and bring important systems—Schoology, SkyDrive, OneNote, video and audio conferencing—right into the classroom. The goal is to teach students how to use technology with purpose, passion, and integrity.
What are the key elements of the Curricular Technology Initiative?
The Curricular Technology Initiative (CTI) will allow students to take full advantage of the software and systems Williston has in place on campus to both complement and expand their education. By using such programs as SkyDrive, OneNote, and Schoology—on campus, at home, or anywhere else—students will be able to collaborate effectively with teachers and each other and learn important organizational skills. Through this mission-driven program, students will learn how to use technology with purpose, passion, and integrity in an anywhere, anytime environment.
Does Williston have the infrastructure to support this program?
Williston’s connection to the Internet is 200 Mbps. Students can access the network wirelessly in all of their classrooms and by September 2013, in any dorm, as well.
What device will my child be issued as part of this program?
Every student and teacher at Williston will be issued the same device. This provides consistency in the academic experience in all classrooms and dorm or home. Currently the school is evaluating devices, and a final decision is expected in the next few weeks. Whatever the device, it will be a tablet with a detachable keyboard running Windows 8 with native stylus capability.
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