The Computer Center located in room 51 was developed by our District Technology Coordinator Allan Dake and it provides the following: 28 Macintosh LC 575 8/250 computers networked by Ether Net to 3 ImageWriter printers, a color ink jet printer a Laser printer and a a Work Group 95 35/1000 Server. A Power MAC 6100 AV with a 17" color monitor and a built in CD-ROM, an Apple color scanner provide an additional work station for students to hook up the still video cameras. We offer four different computer classes at Edmonson and they are: Computer Awareness which is required for all sixth graders it reinforces the computer knowledge they have learned in there elementary school, like Macintosh Basics, keyboarding, word processing, computer literacy, drawing and the use of graphics in documents. The seventh and eight graders can choose Computer Applications which covers HyperStudio (a program that encourages students to think on their own and design something that can be used by others), Print Shop, Integrated Software (word processing, data base, spread sheet & communications), as well as adding clip art sound and graphics to other applications. They can also choose Computers and Technology where students learn to use a scanner, a video camera, a still video camera and several other multimedia presentation pieces of equipment to make Quick Time movies or design presentations to add to their word processing documents. Advanced Computer where students can apply all previously learned information into an independent study course of their choice using computers and technology.
In the Media Center we have an EtherNet network with a Work Group 95 35/2000 Server than handles all of the record keeping, checkout, inventory and card catalog functions. We also have 5 Macintosh 575 computers with CD and 10 Macintosh 550 computers for student use to type papers or access the resources located on the network.Our Professional Library has four Macintosh computers an ImageWriter & Laser printer and modems for E-Mail and Internet connections plus various software for teachers to use. These computers were donated by the University of Michigan as part of the professional development school project. Mr. Moran is our Media Specialist .
Our Science Lab across the hall from the Media Center has 16 Macintosh LC II 6/170 computers networked on LocalTalk with two high speed laser printers. Students in all three grades use this lab to study weather with the use of a modem linked to U. of M. They are also able to link by satellite to NASA in Huntsville for questions related to space. Students are studying Acid Rain and coordinating their data with other schools around the country through the use of the modem. Students study motion, temperature, acceleration and the environment with these computers and Lab Tech interfaces. The program Mac Frog is used to prepare students for frog dissection. Mr. Dornfeld is our Science Department Chairmen.
Mr. Munn, has facilitated establishment of our Math Lab, which is currently spread over 4 rooms in the 6th grade hallway. There are a total of 28 LC II 6/80 computers for this lab, as well as a 660 AV and an overhead projection system for instruction. Currently being developed is a program for students to present their learning in portfolio form using the AV capabilities of the lab equipment. Students use various programs to help them relate math with everyday research and they are able to produce charts and graphs to highlight and demonstrate their studies. Recently they started exchanging work with students from Africa who are doing similiar projects.
All our classrooms have a work station with a Macintosh LC 475 8/160 and include a CD drive and an Ink Jet printer. Teachers are using computers in their classrooms to prepare lessons, record grades and students also use these computers for various educational activities including typing papers and doing research on the Encyclopedia provided on CD. Each classroom has at least the following software: ClarisWorks (which provides for Word Processing, Database, Spreadsheet, Draw, Paint and Communications), PrintShop Deluxe and Making the Grade.
The Learning Center uses 4 LC 580 8/800 computers for instructional support. These computers help students build basic skills. Students are engaged in math and language skill activities that enhance their learning process. Some of these activities include: Word Attack (vocabulary), Math Football, Hands-On Math, Fraction Action, Math Invaders, Spelling Bee, Hangman, and others. These activities support the non-computer classroom learning activities.
Our Technology Lab was just completed. The technology lab gives students exposure to many aspects of technology. Taught with a modular curriculum, students will learn CAD/CAM and CNC using14 IBM computers with the help of a plotter and CNC milling machine. The Technology lab also incorporates basic and intermediate robotics, programming skills, and explores aspects of rocketry, structural analysis, and concepts in pneumatic power. Students will be able to build prototypes in the research and development room and test them in our wind tunnel. This lab provides students more hands on with technology and is a very popular elective course. Mr. Guy Dobies is our Technology Instructor.
The Video Production Studio is used by Mr. Prince to teach students about video production techniques. The studio has three S-VHS video cameras and two VCRs with video mixing and editing capabilities. With this equipment, the students put on a weekly broadcast for the whole school in which they plan, tape and edit the different segments. Television students anchor the broadcast. Students also do special assignments with the mixers and the computer to expand their knowledge of special effects. Channel One has provided a monitor in each classroom for viewing this presentation along with the Channel One program each morning.