Education, at its most fundamental core, is a social endeavour between student and teacher. While this remains a core tenet in the Junior School, it is clear that at the dawn of the digital era, technology must also be integrated into the student experience. However, we must be vigilant to not replace that critical human contact with a machine, but harness those tools purposefully and thoughtfully to engage each student individually as they work toward their personal learning goals.
A wide array of tools are readily available in the Junior School, including interactive whiteboards in each classroom, an Apple iPad mobile learning lab, dedicated primary and junior iMac labs, LEGO robotics, a generous distribution of iPads in the junior classrooms and laptop resources for each teacher. Having the hardware and software is not enough, for we recognize that it is professionally informed teachers who animate the curriculum with the inspired use of technology tools. To this end, we also have a dedicated Junior School Technology Integration Specialist who oversees the MacLabs and works alongside both teachers and students, facilitating projects and creating engaging lessons inside and outside the classroom.
At CDS, we remain true to our core strengths and beliefs regarding teaching and learning, but are also sure footed, knowing when and where to adapt and adopt the best uses of emergent technology within our classrooms. That is true - Education, with balance.