How SMART are we?

Instruction in maths and science classes in Middle and Senior Schools has changed  with the injection of SMART board technologies in the classrooms.  SMARTboards allow for electronic interactive connectivity and communication and are powerful tools for visual learning. Teachers have noted improved levels of student engagement in learning, higher levels of questioning, and deeper understanding of concepts that they can “see”. Home and school learning is leveraged because students can revisit and review material that has been posted. They can work at their own pace, according to their own needs, on their own time at home. Class time is used more effectively to address questions that students pose based on their learning needs. Collaboration among faculty is very positive as they develop lessons together and share expertise in using the SMART resources. It takes more time upfront to develop the lessons but the payback in student achievement and quality of the learning experience are worth the effort. We will expand the use of these resources in the humanities and social sciences next year.

RESOURCE-RICH INTEGRATION

 HSC provides a resource-rich environment that is complementary to the mission, vision and values of the College. Technology resources support active teaching and learning and are used as tools to enhance best practices and effective instructional strategies. Resources consider the age and stage appropriateness of the students.

 All classrooms are fully wired and several computer labs are available for general on-line access or for specialized coursework. The Junior and Middle school programs are supported by wireless laptop mobile labs.

Specialized programs in the senior school include:

Communications Technology courses for grades 10 to 12 focus on 3D animation, webpage design, and video production. The HSC yearbook – The Boar Pibroch – is designed and developed in-house as a full course grade 12 credit . We are pleased to note that last year’s publication was awarded a first place in the National Yearbook competition.

Technological design courses address design perspectives and product development as part of a problem solving approach to learning. Students acquire theoretical understanding and apply this in hands-on activities in robotics competitions and other applications.

IT SERVICES -  COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

  Establishing and maintaining stable connections in electronic resources is critical to the success of any organization and the IT services department is key to this success. HSC has 3 full time staff who address database and network administration to ensure the viability of our systems for student, faculty and parent access and use. To broaden support, HSC has worked in partnership with Mohawk College for approximately 10 years to provide co-operative education placements for the network systems program of the Computer science and information technology department. This partnership has been extremely positive and the co-op students have added great value to our IT services during the academic year and over the summer. We have had the good fortune of hiring 2 of the students to become full time employees at HSC. This year we are also connecting with Sheridan College for co-op placements for the Information Technology programs.

IT STUDENT FORUM    

IT development and operations are supported by student volunteers from grades 9 to 12. The forum meets bi-monthly to review systems, consider potential innovations, and to discuss the impact of technology integration in the HSC program.

Forum Mandate

“To better the IT environment for all users at HSC and to develop ethical and responsible student use of IT equipment, through increased representation and communication among students and those responsible for maintaining and developing the IT resources at HSC.”

Forum Membership

Members of the Forum need not be technologically inclined in order to participate. It is crucial that the Forum be comprised of IT users at every level. A potential candidate must have an Acceptable User Agreement in good standing; a candidate may not have a record of an infraction on their student record.