TECHNOLOGY ACROSS THE CURRICULUM
Aquinas High School is preparing students for the increasing virtual world of the 21st Century. The integration of technology across the curriculum provides instruction that challenges students to build connections and to develop critical thinking skills. Students have access to computers throughout the day in all academic subjects.
With the SMART Board interactive whiteboard, students can explore a website, give a science presentation or take a virtual field trip. Inquiry-based learning creates a dynamic classroom experience. Teachers use laptop computer carts a\in the instructional program enabling students access to the Internet and databases, while integrating the objectives of the daily lesson.
From Adobe Creative Suite in the art program, to Pasco Scientific equipment enabling "real-time" experiments, to on-line labs and activities in AP Biology and AP Calculus, technology has truly transformed the learning environment.
In the 21st Century Science Center, The Knueven Family Foundation pledged $300,000, the largest grant in Aquinas history, to make this dream a reality. The best available construction designs and equipment to meet the needs of Aquinas scientists were researched by Sr. Margaret Ryan, president of Aquinas, and Sr. Catherine Rose, school principal, with the involvement of Sr. Eileen Richard and the other members of the science faculty.
Computers equipped with interfaces from Pasco Scientific enable students to perform experiments in Real Time. Students collect data more accurately and quickly, complete more sophisticated scientific experiments, and gain a solid background in computer-based science before they enter a college laboratory.
Networked state-of-the-art computer classrooms, equipped with Pentium processors and laser printers, serve students in diverse curriculum areas with speedy access to the Internet. Approximately 280 computers are reserved for student use.
In the Pre-College Reading and Writing Course, seniors use laptop computers for the writing portion of the program. Computer carts equipped with laptops are available for use in all subject classes.
All students have a school e-mail account allowing them access and communication to enhance their education. One of the features of this option is the ability to get homework assignments and e-mail homework assignments to teachers. The Guidance Resource Center electronically links students, high schools, and colleges for career and financial aid exploration and direct college application.
Students use The Biology Place website to strengthen their understanding of the subject. This is a valuable website which may be accessed from school and home or any Internet computer. Students who use this website will find: self-directed activities designed to introduce or review topics, tutorials which are designed to clarify and reinforce topics and post-lab reviews of concepts, analyses and results.
CD-Rom and Laser Disc Technology, available in Science, Social Studies, Modern Language and Art, integrates sound, text, and video into the learning experience to provide enrichment and reinforcement.
Computers are not only changing the world; they are also changing us -- the way we work, the way we live, and the way we think and learn.
Aquinas is meeting the challenge of matching technology with curriculum goals, and of providing students with the tools they will need to succeed in a competitive world.
The MathXpert software program helps students visualize and understand mathematical concepts. This program software is available for home use.
Today, almost every profession requires computer skills. Architects use computers to build homes and cities. Doctors practice operations on a simulated patient before they perform the real thing. Musicians and artists use the computer to compose and create.
