The teacher training component of the Department of Education’s Technology in Education (TIE) project is well underway with the official opening of the Media Centre Training Lab. The lab is holding an Open House on February 28 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Teachers, parents, students and the general public are invited to tour the facility.
"Teacher training is integral to the success of the TIE project," said Education Minister Gordon MacInnis. "Technology changes every day, it’s a constant struggle to stay current on the latest software applications and equipment. The lab provides central location for teachers to get together to learn and share their knowledge with each other."
The $30,000 facility contains eight workstations, including one multi-media unit, on a Novell network. This type of network was chosen because it is identical to those that have been installed in schools to date under the TIE project.
The lab will target educator training on educational computer applications and the Internet. Teacher response to the training workshops has been tremendous says the Technology in Education coordinator. "Since November we’ve had more than 200 teachers participate in training sessions," said Donna Lavoie. "In fact, on a number of occasions we have had to add extra sessions."
Functioning on a Novell network, the lab will also serve as a facility for Department consultants, teachers and various committees to evaluate and test software for use in schools. This is extremely important in ensuring that only high quality software applications, closely linked to curriculum and educational goals, are approved for use in Island schools.