by Jennifer Heathcock
TYLER (KYTX) - Performance records at Dogan Middle School over the past few years have been less than stellar, and that has 8th graders there trading in their pencils and paper for new technology.
As CBS 19's Jennifer Heathcock explains, it's a different way of teaching to promote better understanding. It's a pilot program at Dogan Middle School using instruments most of us couldn't have imagined in schools just years ago. While it's all new and fun for the 8th graders, the goal is to bring the low performing school back up to speed.
Teachers and students at Dogan Middle School have a new way of thinking.
"They're hands on. They multi-task. They'd rather listen to music and do documents typing in the information then writing on paper," says Dianna Young.
Technology specialist Dianna Young says the pilot program that began 3 weeks ago in the 8th grade science and social studies classes has the students ditching paper, and clicking keys. Teachers like Chantal Woodhull say it's easy to adapt, and using netbook computers is already helping students.
"I don't have anybody drift off to sleep, no one's mind is on another planet. They're on the lesson, they're intrigued and exploring," says Woodhull.
It's more visual learning, right at their fingertips.
"It's a lot easier for students. All the assignments are in one spot and doesn't get lost in the trash or a dog can't tear it up."
Once students leave the classroom, they no longer have to take a book and flip through pages. Now, it's all touch and go.
"[You just] put the headphones in and listen to a chapter," says student Zari Sandovall.
Teachers and administrators say it's about getting the students engaged so they can better understand.
"That's our main goal, really. Encourage them into deeper comprehension of content so it does raise their achievements," said Young.
The Tyler ISD school board is meeting Thursday night to discuss the fate of Dogan Middle School.
