Journal Entry #3

Zucker, A (2009, June/July). Assessment Made Easy. Learning and Leading with Technology, 18-21

Synopsis:

Overall the article talked about a high school in Denver, Colorado that had a one-to-one laptop to student ratio. By allowing this students are able to get up to the minute feedback. Teachers are able to effectively and efficiently give feedback since most of what is submitted is sent via e-mail. There are also programs that give instant feedback to the teacher about what the students are doing well on and what they need more help with. By doing this the teacher is able to have a reteach week. During this week the teachers are able to go over information students are not grasping.

Question:

How can the technology used at DSST be integrated into other schools?

It seems as though the information that is being presented at DSST is done in a way for students to get the most benefit. Since the students are able to get up to the minute feedback they are able to see what they are doing wrong and are able to change it right then. There is not lag time for students to forget what they learned. If even some of this could be integrated into "normal" classrooms the students would see some benefit. It is up to the teacher to utilize the technology that is out there for them.

Question:

Do the demographics have anything to do with the success rates?

Since DSST aims to have a diverse school with kids from different backgrounds. By doing so every child has a chance to succeed. It is up to the individual student to make the effort to succeed. The first graduating class sent everyone to a four year college. That is unprecedented. The school has done something correct to create an environment conducive to learning.