Special Projects Grant: Technology in the Classroom

Submitted by: Taylor DeCaigny

Hastings School

I want to start by thanking the Manitoba Association of Multi-Age Educators for the generous grant that has aided in the success of multiple students within my grade seven and eight classroom at Hastings school within the Louis Riel School Division. When I first introduced the recent technology into my classroom, which consisted of two iPads, two wireless keyboards and three pairs of headphones, the smiles and cheers from my students already made me realize how important working technology can be. After learning how they will be used in the classroom and how we treat technology, we quickly jumped into using them in multiple ways. 

One area that has made a difference already is having access to the two iPads when needed, for example there are multi language learners working within my classroom, but they do not have access to technology all the time, this hinders their performance, when needing to translate something quickly in order to go to the next step of an assignment. Multi language learners have started three-point dictionaries on the iPads, which they use in every subject, when they are completing this on paper, it would take them most of the class to complete these to gain an understanding of the task before they even got started. They are now able to use technology to help in the process of learning the English language especially in areas like Science and Social Studies where the vocabulary is difficult. We also have a small group pull out for these students. We use the iPads as a way of manipulating letters, listening to letters, and reading decodable texts. Again, this is something that we can now use every day at the same time because the iPads are within our classroom and accessible at all times of the day.

Another area where the iPads and wireless keyboards have aided in the success of students is individuals who have learning gaps or have been diagnosed with learning disabilities. Students have used these to listen to books if they have difficulty reading books at the same level as their peers. Students use Duolingo to learn basic math facts with automaticity. Students can log into their Duolingo account at home and school and continue their progress. They can independently work at their level and feel successful while also working to bridge gaps with their learning. 

The headphones and iPads have been used a lot when a student might need to regulate, they use music, breathing videos and relaxation apps to be able to have success within their school day. Others will listen to music to try and focus on the task at hand and not be distracted by the external stimuli. 

Overall, the iPads, headphones and wireless keyboards have become an access point within the classroom to ensure that all students can have success throughout their day.