2008 Grant Proposal Details

SMART Board   Twin Oaks Elementary

Total: $2000

Description:  Twin Oaks would like to purchase a “SmartBoard” (interactive whiteboard) to enhance our students’ opportunities for interactive learning and presentations. The interactive whiteboard blends conventional whole-class learning strategies at the board with the ability to interact with, save, and edit digital images on a computer. All students are motivated by this new technology. It is fun to come up to the board and with its pens or your finger trace, rearrange, underline or work a math problem (just to name a few). Work is never lost, as the work on the board can be saved. We are also asking for an Airliner, which allows the teacher and students to interact with the SmartBoard anywhere in the class. No more chalkdust. No more markers.

Why is this important?  Interactive whiteboard technology addresses the multiple learning styles and diverse abilities of all our students. Hands-on learners move about to directly interact with projected text and images. The large writing area and smooth surface work well for students with limited motor skills. Visual learners see what is taking place as it unfolds, whereas those with poor visual skills benefit from the large display and the ability to highlight parts of the image. Auditory learners can pair what they are seeing with what is said, whereas those with poor auditory skills receive enhanced visual support.

Who will be served?  We anticipate that all 225 students at Twin Oaks will benefit from the purchase of a whiteboard. The SmartBoard will be integrated into the instruction in classrooms, learning centers, music, and library.

How will this be evaluated?  Success of this grant will be measured using two criteria. The first method of evaluation will be to track the use of the SmartBoard. Increasing use by a wide range of user groups will indicate success. The second, method of evaluation will be done by obtaining teachers’ feedback. We will ask teachers to share their experiences with student involvement while using the SmartBoard. Success will be measured by their reports of improved learning and enthusiasm by students as well as their comfort level and ease in using the SmartBoard for instruction.

Does this build on existing programs?  Over the past three years Twin Oaks has spent a great deal of both professional development time and financial resources to improve our technology program for students. We have an established computer lab (30 iMacs) along with two wireless labs (25 laptops each). Each year our P.T.O. invests funds to provide additional technology support to enrich our program for students. This proposal will help support the advancements we have made to our technology program for students.

Budget:  $1199 SmartBoard 680 $349 Floorstand on wheels $339 Airliner - $1887 - Shipping - at least $113 - Total with shipping estimate $2,000

Proposal #:  110