Journal 3

Zucker, Andrew A. (2009, June/July). Assessment made easy. Learning & Leading With Technology, [36 (8)], [1-3].

This was my favorite article so far! How exciting! I have never heard of a one-to-one lap top school. The Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST) is truly connecting to its students, and it shows in their success rate: 40% of the school comes from low-income families and yet the test scores are among the highest in the state and every graduating senior is accepted to a four-year college or university. Not to mention, the average public school graduation rate is only at 52%. This method of teaching has impacted both the teachers and students tremendously. More than 80% of teachers reported that the computers and related digital tools are "very important" and 65% of the students said the laptops have a very positive effect on their schooling. My favorite benefit of the laptop teaching method is the instant feedback it gives to students and teachers. Being able to asses and grade the students tests the same day is extremely effective for the students learning process. The information is fresh in the students minds and they are able to understand immediately what information was not learned. I also loved the idea of "reteach weeks." That seems like a teachers dream, being able to assess each student immediately in order to help and reteach the information so that the student is able to confidently meet the educational standards.

Question 1

How have the parents reacted to this style of teaching?

I believe the parents are thrilled, just like the teachers and the students! I know I would love my daughter to be able to participate in a learning environment such as this.

Question 2

Will other schools follow in the footsteps of DSST?

I believe so! The success rate of these students is so high, if given the opportunity, or grant, schools would jump at the chance to have a one-to-one laptop learning experience. It would definitely get my vote!