Laptop Program
Trinity Computer Responsible Use Policy for Lower School Students
Trinity Computer Responsible Use Policy for Middle and Upper School Students
The decision to move to a 1:1 program at Trinity was made after carefully examining a myriad of factors. For more than two years, Trinity’s administrative team and board explored feasibility of such a program, reviewing various alternatives, programmatic sustainability and the impact such a program would have on teaching. After much prayer and careful consideration, it was concluded that a 1:1 program would put powerful technology into the hands of students to increase productivity and engagement, enhance communication and collaboration and to give students limitless possibilities for creative expression.
Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, 7th and 9th grade students were educated with the assistance of a MacBook as an additional learning tool throughout the curriculum. This was the initial step toward Trinity becoming a 1:1 laptop school. As of the 2012-2013 school year, all students grades 6 - 12 are equipped with an Apple computer to enhance their learning.
Students in preK-5th grade can access laptops, iPods and iPads on a cart as needed. Computers travel home with students in Middle and Upper School. To protect the content viewed by students while off-campus, a mobile filtering system is installed on each computer.
All teachers have a laptop, projector, and interactive board for planning and teaching, as well.
BENEFITS
The benefits of implementing a 1:1 program for Trinity students are many including (but not limited to):
- Improves Learning — Differentiated instruction can be more readily delivered when all students have a laptop.
- Efficiency and Flexibility — Homework assignments using technology (Edmodo, Internet, specialty applications, flipped classroom) can be given with the confidence that all students can accomplish this work at home, thus maximizing discussion and conceptual exploration during class-time. More face-to-face contact time with teachers is possible.
- Technology and Information Literacy Skills — Laptop ownership results in greater skill, comfort and confidence using technology including composition, research, data analysis, production, and understanding of ethical use of these tools.
- Textbook Evolution — We have already begun to incorporate interactive electronic-based content and “intelligent” online programs in place of some traditional textbooks. This can reduce the cost of classroom materials and the weight of backpacks.
- Provides an extension of classroom learning. All students are able to access remote files.