The Journal News reports that 120 middle and high school teachers in Putnam Valley, NY were given iBook G4s and that about 160 students in the seventh grade will get laptops during the second half of the year as part of their curriculum.
Heavy backpacks stuffed with books may soon become artifacts in the Putnam Valley schools, where students and teachers are receiving free laptops this year with wireless Internet access.
The computers ? Apple iBook G4s ? will be outfitted with compact discs and online textbooks and are part of a new initiative in the district to improve student achievement and prepare children for careers.
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The laptops have increased enthusiasm among students, and encouraged them to write more, said Gary Chapman, director of the 21st Century project, a research program for technology policy at the University of Texas. But they also have been opposed by some parents concerned about the costly equipment coming at the expense of other needs, including more teachers and electives.
The Journal News reports that 120 middle and high school teachers in Putnam Valley, NY were given iBook G4s and that about 160 students in the seventh grade will get laptops during the second half of the year as part of their curriculum.
Heavy backpacks stuffed with books may soon become artifacts in the Putnam Valley schools, where students and teachers are receiving free laptops this year with wireless Internet access.
The computers ? Apple iBook G4s ? will be outfitted with compact discs and online textbooks and are part of a new initiative in the district to improve student achievement and prepare children for careers.
…
The laptops have increased enthusiasm among students, and encouraged them to write more, said Gary Chapman, director of the 21st Century project, a research program for technology policy at the University of Texas. But they also have been opposed by some parents concerned about the costly equipment coming at the expense of other needs, including more teachers and electives.
