Manitoba's school boards have one purpose: to provide our students with the best schools possible.
School boards provide students with increased access to learning resources such as computers, and ensure that students and teachers have the training they need to unleash the potential of these resources.
Sometimes fresh eyes see possibilities where others might see pitfalls. That was the case at Oak Lake Community School in The Fort La Bosse School Division, when teacher Devon Caldwell and pre-service teacher Leah Hunter began exploring educational uses for media players such as the Microsoft Zune mp3 player. Now, this popular technology is serving a new purpose at the school—assisting and enabling exceptional learners.
The challenge facing these two educators was far from unique: in a classroom of students with a wide range of interests, strengths and abilities, how could they ensure that each and every child was motivated, engaged and learning?
Students with cognitive impairments and developmental disorders are now using specially sourced or created media player content to help them meet or exceed their academic goals. Students identified as gifted and talented are sourcing or creating their own media player content, to enrich their school experience. Students of all abilities are demonstrating increased engagement and excitement as they use their Zune media players to improve academic, social and life skills.
Devon Caldwell and Leah Hunter were recognized for their work in this area with a 2008 Microsoft Canadian Innovative Teachers’ Award. The pair also participated in the Microsoft Worldwide Innovative Teachers’ Forum, in Hong Kong in 2008. To learn more about From Tuned Out to Zuned In in The Fort La Bosse School Division, contact Devon Caldwell at dcaldwell@flbsd.mb.ca, or phone 204.855.2242.
