Computer Projection System

Roosevelt Middle School

Through a $2000 grant from the school's Magazine Drive funds in 2003, Roosevelt was able to begin offering Robotics classes during the 2003-04 school year. This "applied engineering" class, by integrating physical science and computer technology in a challenging, relevant and fun format, addresses the increasing need for today's students to develop higher level skills in both the physical and computer sciences. The popularity of the Robotics class (all have filled to the maximum) further underscores the value of this educational opportunity for students. The class's popularity and importance has resulted in the creation of a new Computer Programming Lab at Roosevelt. To maximize the school's support from both student body and administration for this important curricular area, a computer projection system is crucial to the instructional methodology in the new lab necessary to adequately teach computer programming skills and strategies to students.

Who, and how many, students will be served?

Roosevelt's two established computer labs each have a functional computer projection system, and the school has a third "portable" system for use in classrooms throughout the school. A computer projection system for the new Computer Programming Lab would benefit users of the new Lab (including Robotics classes), and would benefit the entire student body by keeping the "portable" system generally available to all staff for classroom instruction. Thus, this will both enhance and encourage staff use of such technology in general classroom instruction, as well as increase student familiarity and comfort with this important, technological instructional tool.

How will you evaluate the success of this project?

The Roosevelt Technology Team will serve as resources for training on use, instructional implementation, and evaluation of the effectiveness of the computer projection system. The team will develop and implement an evaluation study/survey of teacher and student users on the frequency of use, instructional effectiveness and learning impact of using the new technology, both in the new Computer Programming Lab and in general classroom instruction.

Does this proposal build on existing programs at the school?

As mentioned above, this proposal will both enhance the instructional practices in the new Computer Programming Lab, as well as expand the availability of existing computer projection system technology throughout the school. The proposal is also consistent with the Roosevelt mission statement/goals of increased and enhanced use of technology throughout the instructional environment.

How will the funds be used?

Hitachi Model PB 2220 projection system; storage case.