An idea came about by our MS SIAC students to have 8th grade students spend some time with current 6th graders to introduce them to the 1:1 laptop world and how it transforms teaching and learning. When Clayton Ridge 6th graders become 7th graders they will each have an issued laptop to use on an everyday basis at school and even have the opportunity to take them home. Many of our current 6th grade students had questions about how the 1:1 environment works and what will be expected of them in regards to using, caring and maintaining the issued MacBook. Also, our Clayton Ridge 8th graders felt they had several helpful tips and best practices to share with our Clayton Ridge 6th graders to make the laptop acquisition an easier transition.
So each 6th grade student was paired/partnered with an 8th grade student to spend the morning with them in their 6th grade classes to mentor and demonstrate "best practices" to using the laptop. 6th grade teachers designed their math, language and science lessons around using technology to give 6th grade students a taste an introduction to what 7th grade will be like. In addition, 7th grade teachers were on hand to share their expectations and ideas of how they implement a technology environment within their classrooms.
Overall it was a great experience. Our 8th graders were fantastic leaders and role models for our 6th graders to ask questions and learn all about how to make things happen with their issued MacBooks.
