Instructional Technology in the Middle Schools
Students in Grades 5 & 6 have scheduled weekly lessons in the computer lab for three terms of the school year and weekly scheduled library/research lessons in the Library for the three terms. The emphasis in Grades 5 & 6 is the acquisition of skills (meeting DOE Technology Standards) that can be utilized in greater depth and independence as students progress through the Middle School and into High School.
Students in Grades 7 & 8 are scheduled by their subject area teachers into the computer labs throughout the year. The Technology Integration Specialist meets with teachers to plan lessons that extend the students' technology skills while enhancing student learning in the subject areas. Lessons are designed to meet the MA Department of Education Technology Standards as well as state standards for the content areas.
Students have individual login names and passwords that allow access to the network. Extensive use is made of application software and educationally sound sites on the Internet. Library and Technology staff give special emphasis to research skills and writing research reports including instruction in creating an Internet based bibliography, evaluating print and online resources while correctly citing references and avoiding plagiarism.
