The use of computers in the classroom can extend and enrich students' learning in important and unique ways. Students should be encouraged to use computers for a variety of purposes. For example, students can peruse the World Wide Web to learn about literature and social studies. They can use computer programs to compile, organize, store and analyze data for math and science. They can use websites to help them learn basic math and reading skills in grades as early as kindergarten. They can write reports using word-processing and spreadsheets in which they present their findings. Most of us would agree that learning takes place best across the curriculum. This is particularly true when we speak of writing and math. This is also true when we speak of computer literacy and mastery.

Schools usually organize their computer education in one of  two different ways. 1. A teacher is dedicated to teaching computers to all grades usually in a computer lab. Students show up and are given tasks to perform that focus on building skills using software. 2. Teachers in every subject use computers in accordance to their own subject and grade level standards.

Here at St. Martin’s, we have tried to make the use of technology integrated into the academic curriculum as stated in number 2 above. The drawback to this approach is that it is easy for things to be skipped over. Computer mastery can be pushed aside as more things are added to the curriculum and teachers’ responsibilities. In addition, not all teachers are comfortable using the technology themselves and may not have reached the level of mastery we ask of their students. However, when schools can take ownership of truly teaching computers across the curriculum, the level of computer mastery is increased and students’ excitement about the subject matter also increases. Graduates of these programs tend to see computers as a tool that can aid them in learning new things and increase their self-expression.

In an attempt to make computer technology a regular and ongoing part of our students lives in all subjects here at St. Martins, I have created the following expectations by grade level. I will be meeting with teachers to help them plan and implement ways for students to reach these expectations. As the director of technology, I am here to assist you in anyway possible in this endeavor.