Demise of the overhead projector...

Since the beginning of the school year, the Corte Madera computer lab has been steadily accumulating a collection of retired overhead projectors. It seems the more flexible and sophisticated tandem of document camera and multimedia projector is replacing these former classroom “staples.” Since discovering and spreading the word about this "dynamic duo," most teachers who have given them a try have thrown out their old overheads. These modern tools allow the teacher to display content from a variety of sources - from textbooks, to newspapers, to small items, to video from their laptop computers - providing a richer, more flexible, and more interactive classroom experience.

The response to these new tools has been overwhelming! Donna Kasprowicz, English teacher at Corte Madera, couldn't be giddier when talking about how the document camera has enriched her classroom. She has remarked on many occasions just how indispensable it is!

Leveraging technology for 21st Century learning is one goal of Educational Technology in the Portola Valley School District. We're thrilled that the document camera and projector tandem has been so well received in the classroom. We are excited to rollout document cameras at Ormondale in the weeks ahead.

Hello and Welcome

Welcome to the Portola Valley School District's, Technology Blog! This is our chance to share with you - parents, students, staff, and community at large - the emerging stories involving the integration of technology with teaching and learning in our Kindergarten through Eighth grade classrooms. We plan on posting new content every month.

Stay tuned!