Description:

This is a 6-week, fast-paced introduction to the basics in computer skills and tools that Hillview, high school, and real life will demand. In addition, issues such as Internet safety & security, digital citizenship, research, and copyright law will be discussed. Activities will include daily keyboarding practice and the creation of digital projects using a variety of applications.

Goal: The technology exploratory student will become familiar with technology tools and practices that will contribute to effective learning and productive living in an increasingly digital world.

Objectives:

1. Students will work to improve typing speed and accuracy by completing daily drills using Mavis Beacon software.
   

2. Students will create original projects using Word & Excel.
   

3. Students will create a personal PowerPoint presentation employing the techniques of Presentation Zen as outlined by multimedia presentation design expert, Garr Reynolds. Students will learn to see presentations in a different way – simpler, more visual, more natural, and more meaningful so that their messages will “stick” with the goal of applying these newly learned skills to future presentations in their academic classes.
   

4. Students will demonstrate safe and secure Internet use, digital citizenship, efficient research skills, and an understanding of copyright law via class discussions, activities, and projects.
   

Requirements:

Students must bring the following items daily:

1. Pencil & eraser
   

2. 3-ring binder with one section labeled Exploratory
   

3. Flash drive – for transfer of work between home & school
   

Note: No previous computer expertise is necessary. However, those students who have experience may serve as “tech mentors” for their peers.

Expectations:

In order to guarantee that all the students in my class are able to take advantage of an excellent academic experience, I expect them to follow these rules. I believe that all of the students in my class can behave appropriately. However, I will not allow any student to interrupt what I am teaching or what others are learning.

1. 1. Arrive on time and prepared for class.
   

2. 2. Treat equipment and individuals with respect.
   

3. 3. Give your very best effort on each assignment.
   

4. 4. Adhere to copyright law and good digital citizenship.
   

Grades:

Students will earn E-S-U grades in the areas of Achievement, Conduct, and Work Habits.

Contact:

E-mail: cperez@mpcsd.org ~ Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Note: Students attend class 3 or 5 days a week depending on their particular rotation schedule. Assignments will vary.

Welcome to Technology Exploratory

Mrs. Pérez

will guide you on a whirlwind tour of technology.