Computer Lab & TechnologyMrs. LaVette Brown
The Jefferson computer lab is home to 29 student computers, a scanner, a projector and two printers. We also have eight digital cameras, two Flip Video Cameras and an old-fashioned real video camera for teachers to check out and use in in their classroom.
Students in kindergarten and first grade spend an hour in the lab each week. They work on hand-eye coordination and mouse skills, basic computer skills, and use programs like Raz-Kids, Math Magician and IXL Math to reinforce classroom activities.
Students in grades 2-6 come to the lab twice a week. They spend 30 minutes a week working on typing skills using a program called “Type to Learn.” Third through sixth graders even have to use the dreaded orange keyboard covers so that they don’t peek while practicing. Be sure to ask your student about them. They have strong opinions!
When the second through sixth graders come to the lab for their hour time slot, they work on all kinds of projects. You may find them reviewing for ISAT tests using Study Island or IXL Math. Sometimes they create stories in Word, Power Point presentations, brochures in Publisher or graphs in Excel. You may find them doing self-guided research on endangered species, famous women in history, Colonial America or Ancient Egypt.
In addition to the regular computer lab, we also have a laptop lab, generously donated by our PTO. Teachers can sign up to use it when the regular lab in use. It gets a quite busy during MAP testing.