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Spring Run School Technology Center

 
Technology Center
Spring Run School 2006
 

The Spring Run School has a Technology Center with audiovisual and computer-based instruction. Seven new computers were installed in April 2006. We have 10 computer stations and 2 network printers. This allows us to schedule computer stations for remedial math and reading programs while having enough capacity to allow classrooms to do individual research projects. The students also produce a monthly newsletter using the computer center’s resources. Wheelchair access computer desks are available for students needing such accommodations. Also, a computer with a touch screen is available for students without the ability to use a keyboard and mouse. A certified Teacher of Interactive Media is available to our students for instructional reinforcement in reading, math, phonics and use of the internet for research.

 Each student uses the center’s resources based on their IEP and feedback from the primary teacher. Spring Run’s experience with individualized, computer-based learning has been outstanding. Our students feel more comfortable at the computer than with books, paper and pencils. They like the self-paced aspect and the solo experience. This prevents the resistance to learning based on peer pressure and improves the student’s self respect.

 Failure Free Reading has been a very effective learning tool for Spring Run students. They take a diagnostic test to assess their current reading level. The program then starts at an appropriate point to improve the student’s sight reading, vocabulary and spelling. The exercise is followed by a post test to verify improvement. The majority of FFR students have improved their reading levels 2 grades in one year. Two students have advanced 4 grade levels in the same time period!

 Headsprout is a phonics program designed for those students who are not yet ready to start the 3rd grade reading level. We have been using Headsprout on a trial basis but the results to date are positive.

 Moogie on the Net is a resource that Spring Run uses for students needing math remediation. Students still complain about math but they are advancing much faster than they were before using the online program. This may be due to the interadtive nature of the program, the immediate feedback, or the non-competitive atmosphere of learning on a computer. In any case, the results have been universally positive.

 The TechCenter is constancly searching for and evaluating new programs. We want SpringRunSchool students to have the best instructional software available.