Technology in the Catholic Classroom

Most people look at smartphones and balk at the idea of using that form of technology in the classroom. However, the apps available on portable devices, such as phones or tablets, can open a world of learning to students who are computer savvy. As a matter of fact, the subdued student who seldom participates in class may have a very active online social media outlet with hundreds of friends. When a teacher introduces a lesson utilizing a form of media familiar to that student, the lesson comes to life and a new venue of learning is experienced. The Orlando Catholic Diocese understands the dynamic world of technology in its private schools in Central Florida and empowers its teachers and students to use technological resources. Here is a small sample of digital resources to enhance a child’s education.YouTubeYouTube offers a spinoff of its video broadcasts called TeacherTube. This site presents content suitable for classroom viewing. Downloads are generally from teachers or teaching organizations and open a world of short video clips to embed in smart board lessons or to show as introductory lessons for concepts difficult to grasp.The Khan AcademySponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Google, Khan Academy functions as an online tutoring service with short visuals in mathematics, physical and life science, art, computer programming, and economics. Students working above or below grade level benefit greatly from watching the videos, and literally thousands of questions can be answered with a step-by-step five-minute tutorial. The interactive games, ability to earn medals, and reaching new levels gives Khan Academy’s learning a game-like atmosphere.Wikispaces ClassroomStudy groups come to life when their platform is Wikispaces Classroom. The social networking aspect brings students together in a study hall fashion and allows the free sharing of ideas in a controlled online environment.LeapFrogLeapFrog learning games advance students to ever increasing difficulty levels as they perform a broad array of subjects. BrainPOP offers short bursts of information on several fronts in an animated format jammed with intriguing facts that children love to watch repeatedly. An abundance of apps downloaded onto school tablets present interactive learning material in easily followed games that advance as subject matter is mastered.The sheer abundance of media existing today may seem overwhelming, but it only takes one child’s epiphany – one child who could not comprehend the material after it was presented in multiple forms – to realize the importance of technology in the classroom. The Orlando Catholic Diocese utilizes computers, tablets, and other devices loaded with curriculum-based material to stimulate learning for all students. Contact the  Office of Catholic Schools at 407-246-4900 to learn more about interactive online learning and other forms of technology presented in private schools in Central Florida.