This
fall, Washougal fifth graders began piloting an exciting project using iPads in
their classrooms. Three classrooms (one at each elementary school) plus a group
of special education students are taking part in this technology integration
experiment into subjects including Science, Social Science and Language Arts.
In
preparation for an all-new teaching and learning model, teachers Chelsea Meats,
Erin Hayes, Erin Maier and Stephanie Closson received an intensive “boot camp”
training over the summer and will continue to receive training and support
throughout the year.
Classroom
use varies by class and subject, depending on what students are studying at a
given time. Teachers work with students to use iPad features, such as
text-to-speech and built in word definitions and dictionaries that help
students answer questions immediately. These tools have been particularly
helpful for struggling learners and also help bridge the achievement gap
between student groups. When asked the question,
"How has the iPad changed the way you learn?" one student responded "We
can do class activities together where we're all on the same website instead of
just using one computer or having to share a few computers."
In
Erin Maier’s class at Gause Elementary, students used the iPads to film
themselves presenting to their peers. The students could then immediately
review their work and answer questions such as “Did I speak clearly?” “That was
huge in terms of helping them explain their thinking,” said Maier. “Hearing
themselves speak helps with clarity of thought.”
Technology
Director Les Brown says the project opens doors to new resources. “Technology
can engage students in meaningful learning experiences where they research
topics they are interested in, receive and give peer feedback, and carry their
work through to completion or publication.”
Parents
were included in the roll out process, with meetings were held at each school
to define expectations and explain what the district hopes to gain through the
project.
Curriculum
Director David Tudor hopes the pilot will significantly impact student learning
based on the experiences of other districts. “We anticipate seeing increases in
student achievement particularly in Reading and Math, and especially among
struggling students,” he said. “We’re hoping to see gains for special education
students and students below grade level in reading. We anticipate seeing lower attendance problems, fewer
discipline referrals, and increased time on task.”
Maier
says the devices have increase motivation and engagement in her classroom.
“When we use the iPads, I automatically have 100 percent participation. This is
their world and they are quick learners.”
District
staff will measure the project’s success by comparing test score data between
iPad and non-iPad classrooms to gauge the impact on student academic
achievement. Staff will also
consider data on student attendance, discipline, and surveys on student/family
perceptions about technology.
