Computer Lab

In the Lower School Computer Lab there is always a lot of learning and fun going on.

All students kindergarten through 6th grade come to the computer lab once a week. Classes in the computer lab range in size from 9 to 13 students. The smaller class size allows for individual instruction and for the student to be challenged on his/her particular level. The computer lab is also open for classroom teachers to bring their students.

The instructional goal in the lower school lab is basic computer literacy. In Kindergarten and first grade, the focus is on basic computer terminology and use. Software is used that re-enforces what is taught in the regular classroom. Second grade students begin Microsoft PowerPoint. Third graders are introduced to desktop publishing with Microsoft Publisher and safe use of the Internet and e-mail. Fourth graders continue learning about Publisher and Microsoft Word as well as creating a clay animated feature. The fifth graders learn to do extensive research on the Internet as they prepare a PowerPoint presentation. The sixth graders end their time in the elementary computer lab with a complete review of the Microsoft Office Suite, digital photography with Adobe Photoshop Elements, and learning about the different components inside the computer and how they work. All these computer skills are taught in conjunction with classroom assignments, so that students can readily see the usefulness of the skill/software.

Some of the topics covered are: key boarding, word processing, desktop publishing, multi-media presentations, and responsible use of the Internet and e-mail. Computer skills are taught in conjunction with classroom assignments, so that students can readily see the usefulness of the skill/software.

“Anyone at any age who’s willing to spend a few days being a bit confused and frustrated can learn about computers. It’s simply a matter of your willingness to go through the process.” — Bill Gates, March 1997 issue of Family PC