Personal Digital Assistants

Adams Elementary School

Funds are requested to purchase 10 PDAs, Palms with keyboards, to supplement the current classroom set of PDAs that are being used for instruction. Four Adams teachers have been participating in the 4J program to increase the use of PDAs in classrooms for exciting learning activities. PDAs are essentially little computers' that can be used by the students for note-taking, data collection, brainstorming, outlining, problem-solving, and writing. At a cost of $200 for each PDA plus keyboard, these devices provide the opportunity for students to use up-to-date technologies to support learning at a cost that is far lower than a typical computer or laptop,. The devices are portable and so can be taken on field trips to record data and can be effectively and easily used anywhere in the school building for learning activities. Why this is important? Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of the use of educational technologies to increase the ability of students to acquire and record information and data, analyze such information, and data, and report such information and data in an effective manner. Unfortunately, the cost of computers and laptops is so high that it is impossible with current school funds to provide sufficient computing capability to students at a level of frequency that is sufficient to support such learning goals. PDA's, low-cost computing devices, are emerging as an essential tool to provide greater technology access for students. Four of Adam's seven teachers have received professional development in the use of PDAs for learning activities through a program established by the district. The other three Adam's teachers are interested in increasing their knowledge and skills in the use of these devices. However, the school currently only has one classroom set of PDAs far too few to make effective use. The current grant request would allow for the acquisition of ten additional PDAs, which would facilitate the simultaneous use of PDAs in the building to one classroom, plus a group of students in another classroom.

Who will be served?

The entire population of Adam's School-190 students. All grades K-5.

How will you evaluate the success of this project?

The teachers who have received training in the use of the PDAs are participating in district evaluation activities to assess the effectiveness of the PDAs for instruction. Build on existing school programs. As noted, four of the seven Adam's teachers have already received professional development in the use of PDAs. The additional PDAS in the building will allow for more effective implementation of the knowledge and skills gained by these teachers for the benefit of Adam's students, as well as the expansion of use to the additional three teachers.

How the funds will be spent?

This request will support the acquisition of ten PDAs.