This is definitely a year for change. The curriculum for Computer Literacy
at Fretz Middle School is now 9 weeks long for each grade level. I really
hope that with this extra time that students can get a solid understanding of
Information Technology and with intensive daily practive acquire high
Keyboarding Skills.
AES: Applied Educational Systems is an IT Information Technology self-paced
learning program designed for the individual learner. It is PSSA Standards
based where the student with the use of head phones is engaged in active-
learning.
The program is designed to question and monitor student progress
on a real time basis. I have found this program a positive influence for
the struggling learner particularly with reading difficulties.
Students need to purchase, either at the school store or on their own, a set
of ear buds or headphones. Most of the mp3 earbuds will work. Strive to
have the longer cords since they need to be plugged into the back of the
computer.
We tried extensions last year, but they did not work adequately. The school
store will have them available for a cost of $4.00. This has become
necessary.
Mavis 15: Mavis Teaches Typing is a self-paced keyboarding instructional
program that examines the student's progress and advances the level of work
based on his or her performance. In addition, the student is rewarded by
being given opportunities to play video games where the score is based on
keyboarding success of speed and accuracy. Students make a greater effort
and spend more time in class and homebase practicing skills to enhance their
game scores. With the additional time available, we expect the student to
reach higher proficiency keyboarding skills in speed and accuracy.
