T.A.B.L.E.T. Project
Tools to Access Better Learning Environments through Technology
Beginning in 2006, the Forest Hills School District initiated the “Tools to Access Better Learning Environments through Technology (T.A.B.L.E.T.) Project.” Ninety staff members, consisting of teachers and administrators from Grades K-12, were formed into cadres and spent the year studying the use of educational technology to support teaching and learning. The goals of the project are as follows:
- To advance and sustain the ways in which technology can improve teaching.
- To advance and sustain the ways in which technology can meet the needs of 21st century learners.
- To guide and build a collaborative and supportive community of teachers and learners.
- To learn how to design and implement technology rich lessons and assessments.
As participants in this project, members agree to attend monthly meetings, participate in weekly readings/reflections through our online learning environment and share a culminating project to demonstrate growth in the use of educational technology. In exchange for their efforts, they receive a tablet pc, wireless LCD projector, speakers and cart. Tablet PCs were chosen because we wanted a flexible, multi-purpose learning tool that encourages different forms of interaction.
Now in our fourth year, with over 100 more staff members on board, what makes our innovative project so successful? The T.A.B.L.E.T. Project is built on the belief that professional development must be job-embedded, on-going, tied to curricular goals and supported at all levels. Each of our nine buildings has at least one coach who is there to provide just-in-time support. Monthly meetings are held for coaches to discuss the best uses of technology, plan for monthly meetings and assist cadre members both face-to-face and through virtual interactions.
The cornerstone of our project is our virtual learning environment where we have the opportunity to offer training anytime, anywhere; it is transforming the way in which teachers view professional development. Our teachers are beginning to understand the power of personal learning networks as they reach out to colleagues from their own building, across the district and indeed, from around the world. Through the virtual learning environment, they can share ideas, resources and experiences with other teachers who share common interests and goals. Simply stated, they are immersed in the environment we hope to create for our students.
Although the project focuses on training teachers in the uses of technology, the feedback from students is overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic. Students are more actively engaged as teachers plan lessons that foster collaboration, support various learning styles and encourage different forms of expression. We are committed to exploring ways to provide greater access to the tools needed for our students to learn the skills needed to become successful adult citizens.
This program has transformed our district in a myriad of ways. We are beginning to see changes in teaching practices, as teachers create more engaging environments that encourage students to connect and collaborate in an authentic, real-world manner. After spending a year in the program, teachers feel better prepared to effectively use technology to support teaching and learning and have developed an appreciation for networked learning. We are extremely proud of our effort and look forward to sharing our innovative program with the world!