St. Peter’s students using innovative new technology

 

Teachers at St. Peter’s School learn how to use their new LearnPads on Aug. 28. The LearnPads will be given to each student in grades first through eighth this school year. (John Koski photo)

There’s new educational tool in town, and it goes by the name of LearnPad. Each and every one of the students in grades one to eight at St. Peter’s School will receive one of the devices for the 2013-14 school year.

“LearnPads are the first tablet computer designed specifically for schools,” said Principal Sarah Halbesma.  “They will support our curriculum content, have a secure student interface and are completely controlled by each teacher.

“We realize students learn differently now, and we want to be sure we are giving each of our students the opportunity to be challenged at their own levels,” Halbesma said, noting that the LearnPads are completely customizable for each child and their ability level.”

For example, one group of students could work together on an activity about dinosaurs, while other students, either individually or in groups could be studying deep-sea creatures or astronomy.

And when the teacher wants to call the entire class back together all that is needed is for the teacher to “suspend” the tablets to regain the students’ attention.

Last week, the St. Peter’s School teaching staff received special training for the LearnPads.

“We are excited to bring this new opportunity to our school,” Habelsma said.

 

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