Technology/Computer

Advancements in our rapidly changing world necessitate the acquisition of technological skills to enable students to function in the 21st Century. As lifelong learners and followers of Jesus, students should strive to become citizens who are capable of making significant contributions to our global society. They must also become aware of the social and ethical impact of technology. To this end, the Diocese of Arlington endeavors to make our students not only knowledgeable, but also effective technology users.

Our goal is to present and strengthen the skills students need to access, interpret, and synthesize information which is constantly changing. Thus, technology will be used as a tool for learning and developing critical thinking skills across the content area. Having students acquire these skills will result in the development of self-directed learners who can independently and cooperatively apply technology to solve problems and make informed decisions. Following the established end goals/target areas, given the varying resources at the elementary level, the students will be well equipped with a strong foundation to enhance their learning with advanced technology resources at the high school level.

Technology should enhance and enrich as well as extend the existing curriculum. It should be used in a variety of ways within the classroom and computer lab setting. The classroom teacher, the media specialist, the technology coordinator, and the librarian should collaborate to maximize the effective use of technology in support of the Diocesan curriculum.

Due to the rapid advancements and changes in technology, the curriculum will be reviewed annually or as needed. The review process will reflect appropriate changes and or adjustments as needed.

Technology and Curriculum Integration

Technology for technology’s sake does little to enhance the academic lives of our students or our role as Catholic educators. Accordingly, technology curriculum coordinators will, to the greatest extent possible, work toward achievement of the following skills-based target areas by close collaboration with teachers. Sharing of written curriculum objectives, one-on-one meetings and teacher hands-on participation in technology instruction are examples of proven collaborative methods. In this way, student technology skill achievement is successfully integrated with content/subject-based, curriculum objectives achievement. Successful integration, whether in a lab or classroom environment:

  • Leads to maximum use of technology resources
  • Provides more substantive learning experiences
  • Encourages teachers to creatively incorporate instructional technology tools into their curriculum over time

Terra Nova Information

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