LA Challenge Model Classroom Initiative

Project Overview | MCS Model Project | MCS Model Classroom

The purpose of the Louisiana Challenge Model Classroom Initiative is to assess the degree to which student learning is impacted in technology-rich classrooms with teachers who are appropriately trained. Model classrooms are equipped with hardware based on recommendations in the Louisiana State Plan for Educational Technology.

The case study will focus on five selected third and fifth grade classes from Calcasieu, Jefferson, Lafayette, and Natchitoches Parishes and Monroe City Schools. The teachers were selected by the Challenge facilitators at their sites. They have been involved in Challenge for at least one year. The teachers participated in the Teaching, Learning, and Technology Leadership Institute at the Louisiana Center for Educational Technology (LCET) in Baton Rouge during the summer. The institute consisted of one week of intensive training on integrating technology into standards-based curriculum. During this time the teachers created an online Space Project - Challenge Blasts Off! - which contains lesson plans, activities and an electronic field trip to correlated with space launches.

The classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment which includes five computers with Internet connections, two printers--one networked, a large TV monitor with a presentation device, a digital camera, scanner, VCR, and a classroom set of calculators. A laser-disc player with laser discs and a minicam for teleconferencing are optional.

Recommended software includes an integrated package (Microsoft Office or ClarisWorks), HyperStudio, KidPix, a Multimedia Encyclopedia, the Portfolio Assessment Toolkit, an electronic gradebook, and other content/grade level appropriate software.

The model classroom will be evaluated during the 1998-99 school year. Teachers will submit the Teacher Survey and Rubrics for Internet Use at intervals, weekly journals via e-mail, Individual Student Profiles, Parent Surveys, Attitudinal Surveys, Attendance Records, Discipline Information, Electronic Student Portfolios, samples of student work, and standardized test scores (pre- and post-tests). In addition a Self-Esteem Survey will be given and one day observations will be conducted in all classes.

A control class at the same grade level is included at each site. These classes are to have little or no technology. The teachers will participate in interviews in September and complete surveys based on the NETS Standards.

At the end of the 1998-99 school year the data will be collected and analyzed. The summative evaluation will be a report which will draw conclusions based on the information submitted from all sources.

Project Overview | MCS Model Project | MCS Model Classroom