Journal #1 Nets-T 5

For this assignment I had to read, summarize, analyze, and reflect on an article from the digital edition of Leading and Learning with Technology.

Journal #1: Taking Laptops Schoolwide: A Professional
Green, T., Donavan, L., & Bass, K. (2010). Taking Laptops Schoolwide: A Professional. ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)

A Professional, was an article about one to one laptop programs. The article focused mainly on research and data from the Fullerton school district where six of their schools participate in the Laptops for Learning Program. The Laptops for Learning Program is explained as a program that integrates technology into the classroom. The researchers of tech found that this was best integrated with a PLC approach; which as stated in the article is: a focus on learning rather than teaching, working collaboratively, and holding one’s self accountable for results. They have found that the best results can be attained when the teachers collaborate and work together to plan lessons on the computer in order to properly progress the student for using the laptop in a higher grade.
I believe the one-to-one laptop program could be very an effective program to enhance the students learning experience and enhance their learning. However, I am spectacle that many schools will not be adopting the program for financial reasons.

Question #1:
Where does the funding for the laptops come from?
Never in the article did it state where the funding for the laptops came from. I’m curious if it is federally funded or if the money comes from the state. I also want to know how the school gets the money. Do they have to petition for it? Or maybe, they get it as a grant. Also, once they get the laptops do they still get funded for the maintenance of the laptops in case some should break, or become damaged?

Question #2:
What benefits does the Laptops for Learning Program have?
From reading the article; I believe that everyone in the school benefits from the program. First off the students are being exposed to basic computer skills, which is completely necessary and practical for todays age. The teachers have other ways to communicate with their students, and more opportunities to incorporate matter into their lesson plan in creative ways. Teachers can also use the laptop as reinforcement for the lesson that were taught in class, without maybe boring the student. Laptops are a way to communicate and save paper which could help administration with their budget. These days anything helps. Instead of learning being completed on printed out worksheets, teachers could have their worksheets completed by students on the computer. Overall, everyone benefits in some way.