Technology aiding educational success

Technology changes our lives faster than we realize.

Computers influence nearly everything we do, including how we communicate, travel, conduct business or keep track of our finances. Now, the state Department of Education is advancing learning into the 21st century by integrating technology in the classroom through a Common Core Digital Curriculum (CCDC).

Pilot schools are receiving a tablet or laptop for every student while teachers are equipped with the new Common Core-aligned digital curriculum.

As principal of Mililani Waena Elementary, one of eight public schools piloting the CCDC, I have seen firsthand how computers are opening a whole new world to teachers and students. We are providing teachers with training and professional development to ensure they feel comfortable using the computers.

In the classroom, the CCDC is engaging students and expanding learning opportunities beyond printed textbooks that can quickly become outdated.

The English language arts curriculum encourages and challenges our students to read more complex texts, while promoting higher levels of thinking and reasoning with increased interaction among students.

Individualized computer math lessons are self-paced based on each student’s proficiency level. The activities progress as the student improves on the content, meaning that computer programs adjust the rigor of the lesson as students attain proficiency. No longer will students be confined to what’s in a textbook.

This allows a shift in the classroom, where both the teacher and student are engaged in an exciting and modern way. Let’s face it, many students are able to quickly adapt to technology. We, as educators, now have a responsibility to ensure the proper use of technology tools.

As our teachers go through professional development courses, there is also a renewed sense of innovation. As principal, this is key to a staff’s success and, ultimately, student success.

You would be surprised at how computers have advanced the skill level of our children. Kindergarteners are using computers to collaborate with another class to create presentations. Third-graders are logging on to Google calendars to schedule and share announcements of upcoming events. By fourth grade, they are using Google Docs to share and edit writing projects.

Any pilot program entails a certain degree of uncertainty, but with the expansive sum of financial resources committed to this project, it is incumbent upon our school to demonstrate fiduciary responsibility in the investment of our time and resources. It has been exciting and encouraging to see the possibilities being presented as teachers already are infusing mini-lessons that incorporate digital literacy com- ponents to engage students.

The response of the various Department of Education offices working in harmony with our school is greatly appreciated, as it provides us with support, yet allows us to maintain ownership of our own professional craft to design curriculum tailored for our students. We are honored to help lead the integration of technology and curriculum for schools statewide.

The bold commitment of our state Legislature and department leadership is helping to open pathways to innovation in our classrooms and prepare students for college and careers.