BLAINE, Minn. – The Spring Lake Park School District hosted a Celebration of Learning, recognizing its newly implemented 1:1 Digital Learning Initiative. The event was attended by parents and educators from across the state, as well as Spring Lake Park School District Superintendent Dr. Jeff Ronneberg.
As a result of the Digital Learning Initiative, nearly every student in the district now has access to either an iPad or iPod Touch; planning for the project began in the fall of 2011. Research indicates that combining evidence-based learning strategies with access to current technology is a key component of increasing student achievement. Two eighth grade students led a live demonstration of how iPads are used in classrooms to better student learning.
Apps like NearPad make it possible for students to submit tests, quizzes, and practice problems, and follow along with in-class examples. There are already a wide variety of classroom apps available, allowing teachers and students to use the devices in nearly every subject.
Students said that the academic benefits of having this technology extend beyond the classroom. They explained that the iPads have helped with everything from organizing schedules to contacting their teachers for homework help. Programs like E-Books for Math are replacing traditional textbooks, lightening the load for many students.
Students said that using the new technology gives them a higher feeling of engagement with classroom material. They also said that iPads lessen the likelihood that they will lose their homework, since everything is digital.
However, there is one downside to this new advancement: students can no longer use the “dog ate my homework” excuse.
