21st CENTURY SKILLS: TECHNOLOGY AT SUDBURY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Our students and teachers are participating in a variety of learning opportunities that involve technology and innovation, each sharing the same goals:

• to provide inquiry based learning opportunities for our students
• to provide equal access to technology and digital tools of the 21’st century
• to provide our students with authentic learning experiences, and
• to foster 21st century skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and teamwork

Technology in the Early Learning (Kindergarten) Classrooms  - iPads

iPads offer more diverse methods for delivering instruction and engaging students for learning in the 21st century:

• Students find iPads easier to use than traditional computers. iPads are everyday technology, especially when the students are already familiar with their parents’ iPhones or smart tablets, as well as their own gaming or learning devices.
  
  
• We believe that all kids need to be technology literate, whether they're 3 or 33. Although we are still teaching explicitly, it gives the students opportunities to reinforce those skills that are not grasped the first time. We’ve noticed that the programs on the iPad, drive home important lessons learned in the classroom.
  
  
• When providing differentiated instruction, students feel safe and comfortable reinforcing skills that are challenging to them.
  
  
• Students develop confidence in their abilities and enthusiasm to try new challenges especially when they can speak and listen to themselves retell a story, answer questions, or give an opinion.
  
  
• iPads hold students’ attention because they are exciting and challenging.
  
  
• The variety of content available on an iPad far exceeds that of any textbook. They also cost far less when compared to all of the
  textbooks, paper and copies made throughout the year.

Aboriginal Technology Kits

Sudbury Catholic Schools provides Native Language and Studies classes with access to Aboriginal Technology Kits.  These multimedia kits include: digital video cameras, digital still cameras, tripods, macbooks, earphones, microphones, and a diverse array among other devices. 

Sudbury Catholic District School Board students see technology as having the potential to strengthen Aboriginal identity by providing an effective 21st century medium for promoting youth voice and cultural retention.  Sudbury Catholic Schools Aboriginal Technology Kits support the promotion, renewal and enrichment of Native language and culture by providing new opportunities to engage youth, transfer cultural knowledge, and channel student and teacher creativity.

Assistive Technology

A variety of technology is used at Sudbury Catholic to assist students with special needs to allow them every opportunity for learning success This includes ipads, computers, FM Sound Systems, smartboards, SMART tables, and a variety of specialized equipment. Assistive technology is used by individuals with disabilities to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Throughout the board we recognize technology as a tool that assists students with special needs to give them the opportunity to access the curriculum and feel proud of their accomplishments. 

At all Sudbury Catholic schools, there are a bank of shared devices for student use.  In elementary, classes share MacBook Carts, and iPads; and in Secondary, our students have access to NetBooks, iPads, and iPods.


Bring Your Own Device (B.Y.O.D.)

At all Sudbury Catholic Secondary Schools, wireless internet is available for all students who wish to bring their own technology devices to school - to assist with lessons, research and planning. From cell phones to laptops, students are encouraged to bring their devices daily to connect and better  enhance and support their learning opportunities.