Students use tablet PCs to maximize learning

Leaders of Texas’ Klein Independent School District are committed to the effective use of technology to meet the needs of 21st century learners.

District leaders, including Superintendent Jim Cain, board President Georgan Reitmeier, board member Steve Szymczak, and technology director Ann McMullan discussed the Technology Baseline Standard Initiative (TBSI) and One-to-One Tablet PC program at a conference workshop Monday.

The TBSI calls for all core content classrooms to have these basic technology tools: a Hitachi Starboard interactive whiteboard; LCD projector, document camera, an eInstruction assessment system, and five networked computer workstations.

The initiative began with all of the district’s fifth- and sixth-grade classrooms and since has been expanded to every K-8 classroom as well as high school English, math, science, world geography, and world history classes. Next year, it will be extended to additional high school courses and prekindergarten programs.

The One-to-One program calls for every student and teacher to have a Tablet PC, with 24/7 access to digital content and productivity tools.

The district chose the Tablet PC over a traditional laptop because the goal is to provide the best instructional and learning tool, not to simply give every student a laptop computer. With a Tablet PC, students effectively can use digital technology in all content areas, including math and science. Both math and science instruction are greatly enhanced with the use of the “scribing” technology available with a Tablet PC, the presenters said.