Hickory Creek students use computer tablets
December 6, 2012 1:04PM
Hickory Creek Middle School seventh-graders Kaylee Howell and Joey Isdonas use a computer tablet in class. | Supplied Photo
Updated: January 10, 2013 6:01AM
Sixth- through eighth-graders at Hickory Creek Middle School in Frankfort recently began using 21 computer tablets that were provided last year through a grant by the District 157-C Education Foundation.
The tablets were introduced through a pilot program last year in classes by teachers Cheryl Donovan, Katie Ellinghaus, Katie Duff, Tyler Hammond and Tricia Dotson. The tablets now are used for formal and teachable lessons.
Many students also use their own tablets and iPads at home, school officials said.
Donovan said the tablets have been used throughout the core areas of English language arts, social studies, math and advisory. This includes being used for disability research, acquiring research skills through Wordbook online, planning meal budgets in math, alternate novel study blogging, creating movies, comparing and contrasting Disney’s “Pocahontas” to the real story, math enrichment games and general resource, Donovan said.
Donovan has applied for another foundation grant requesting additional PC tablets this year.
“Incorporating technology for this generation of students is essential as they are in the midst of a digital wave,” Principal Kevin Suchinski said. “Digital technologies are completely normal for them and part of their everyday life.
“Integrating technology into the classroom will help students create and learn new things and communicate in new ways with people.”
Staff reports
