On the Road With Technology

The roads are lonely. The land stretches out for miles on end, some of it flat Cheap Rosetta Stone Software and open, some high desert broken only by occasional peaks. The towns are small and isolated—separated by vast ranches and reservations. In this remote, rural region of western New Mexico, students and teachers travel great distances to reach the nearest school.But with SEDL's help, four districts in the region are using technology to connect schools and students to each other and the larger world through the New Mexico Rural Partnership for Technology.A Road Map for Using TechnologyThe partnership aims to integrate technology into instruction to build students' 21st century skills, with a focus on literacy. Using technology in classroom instruction can help boost student achievement in core content areas like reading, writing, math, and science. The benefits are not limited to academics, however. Through the use of technology, students are likely to improve problem-solving skills and enjoy higher motivation and a better attitude about learning (Waddoups, 2004).SEDL has been providing professional development and follow-up technical assistance to help teachers understand the role of technology and use it effectively in the classroom. The results are already evident, with students using technology for Rosetta Stone French self-expression, problem solving, and even world exploration.Telling StoriesOne of the first professional development sessions that SEDL staff provided to teachers was on digital slide shows. Teachers learned to use applications like Microsoft® Photo Story, which enables users to create customized slideshows with digital photos. After mastering the software, teachers learned how to use digital slideshows to support literacy and writing in a creative, project-based way. Most teachers found that they could quickly and easily learn the application.By starting off with a simple activity, teachers and students enjoyed a quick win that built confidence and encouraged them to find additional ways to incorporate technology. Students are now taking pictures with digital cameras, writing and narrating stories, and then putting slides in order to tell their stories. Because many of the students are English language learners, digital slide shows provide an effective and engaging way for them to improve their communication skills.Traveling the WorldVirtual field trips were the focus of another professional development session. In rural New Mexico, students travel up to 70 miles one way to attend school. Activities like online trips to museums in Paris can reduce isolation, open the world to students, and help them understand their place in it. Using videoconferencing technology, SEDL staff conducted the session remotely, from SEDL headquarters in Austin, Texas, Rosetta Stone Software while teachers participated at their individual school sites.