GHCA'S LAPTOP INITIATIVE
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INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this initiative is to integrate computer technology into the classroom setting. Up to this point, GHCA has had a strong Computer Science curriculum, with students learning computer-specific subjects like programming, computer skills, and computer technology. Unfortunately, our students rarely had the chance to apply these skills in their other subjects. For this to happen most effectively, computer technology must be with the students in the classroom. Thus the birth of the Laptop Initiative. The Lord's timing is perfect as always, because the the timing of this initiative lines up with larger-scale changes at GHCA and a shift in the market towards small, inexpensive laptop computers. Modern laptop computers and Internet-enabled devices now have the computational power needed to meet our goals at prices matching traditionally less-expensive desktop systems. In fact, system administrator Michael Surran predicts that laptop computers and other Internet devices will someday be as ubiquitous in schools as calculators! GOALSOur Laptop Initiative has a number of goals. Our top three goals are to provide:
DEPLOYMENTThe Laptop Initiative will be phased in during the 2008-2009 school year. This will allow time for everyone to "get their feet wet" as teachers experiment with the technology in their classrooms. During this deployment, some glitches are to be expected, and by anticipating those glitches we can use this time to most effectively make the transition to using laptops on a more full-time basis. The Laptop Initiative is currently aimed at grades 7-12, with the GHCA Computer Lab becoming more available for Elementary classes where students will focus on basic computer skills such as keyboarding and research. HARDWAREThe laptops themselves will be purchased and owned by the family. A set of minimum requirements will need to be met in order for the laptop to use GHCA's network. For the 2008-2009 phased-in deployment, a laptop will NOT be mandatory for every child, however it is highly encouraged that parents who cannot afford a laptop for one or more child seriously consider our "earn a free laptop" promotion being offered as part of this year's Bike-a-Thon (link to information coming soon). GHCA is promoting the Asus Eee PC Laptop which starts at $300. This laptop is small, light, yet loaded with applications, including Internet, wireless, word processing, and more! MORE INFORMATIONFor more information, please click on of the following links:
If you still have a question after reading through the above links, contact us at laptops@ghca.com!
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