Cinthia Gomez shares a laugh with KLTV reporter, Lakecia Shockley, while photographer, Lynn Mitchell, looks on. Cinthia was interviewed prior to a technology showcase held in her classroom Feb. 10. She is a first grade student in Angela Brotherton’s class at Pittsburg Primary School.
BY MARSHA NEELEY
mneeley@etcnonline.com
What have been considered traditional teaching methods in the classrooms are changing as technology continues to advance. The need for textbooks and writing utensils is diminishing.
A community event showcasing how technology is changing Pittsburg Primary School was held Feb. 10 with Pittsburg Rotary Club members in attendance.
First grade students in Angela Brotherton’s class used a giant digital screen, known as an eno™ Interactive Whiteboard, to teach their fellow classmates interactive lessons including math and science.
They were led by fellow classmate and ‘mathematician of the day,’ Yedhi Ramirez.
“We invited the Rotary Club to hold their meeting at the primary school, because they represent so many different aspects of our community, and we wanted to showcase our students to the community,” said Vicki Rockett, principal.
This technology will allow students in Pittsburg to be competitive with students anywhere in the world, according to Mrs. Rockett.
“I wanted our guests to see the power of the use of technology in the classroom and to see how natural integration of technology is to such small children. I want them to see that our students are comfortable and confident using the technology themselves and to see the level of engagement because of the interactive technology,” said Mrs. Rockett. “We have seen student engagement increase with the implementation of the interactive white boards.”
There is a much greater excitement for learning not only in students, but in teachers as well.
“Teachers have been revitalized with a new way of teaching and are working together to share new ideas and strategies,” Mrs. Rockett said. “They are excited about the differences they have seen with their students and with the fact that teaching is fun again.”
A reporter/photographer team from an area television station was on hand to capture the excitement of the day and even interviewed a few of the students. Cinthia Gomez was eager to share what she likes best about the new whiteboard in her classroom and how they use it every day.
“Math, calendars, and we always watch a movie,” she said.
Students demonstrated how the board is used to check the weather on the TV station’s Web site. They worked math problems, and even developed patterns using the board.
“They get to do all those different things with the board. It’s so amazing to me that they remember every time they go up there what they can do and if I forget they’re sure to tell me,” said Mrs. Brotherton.