Mobile technologies support learning

A project that will trial the use of digital hand-held technologies to enhance and support student learning in science and mathematics was launched today by Education Minister Trevor at Wainuiomata High School.

This project, known as the Mobile Technologies in the Sciences (MOTIS) project, will involve four secondary schools from the Wellington region - Wainuiomata High School, Paraparaumu College, Naenae College, and Wellington East Girls' College.

"The MOTIS project will examine how these technologies can enhance student interest and motivation, provide a wider range of learning opportunities, and support precision and accuracy in learning," Trevor Mallard said.

The hand held technologies include portable data-logging equipment, graphic calculators, and remote environmental monitoring devices supplied by business partner, Texas Instruments.

"The three year project will be facilitated by Andrew Tideswell from Wainuiomata High School. Mr Tideswell will work in the schools training teachers and students to use the technologies, and assisting in the development of learning programmes.

"This is another one of the Digital Opportunities projects which are joint government, schools and business initiatives, aimed at supporting the innovative use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) for specific student learning needs, and providing enhanced learning opportunities."

The MOTIS project will be co-ordinated with another Digital Opportunities project, Project Mindspring, to share on-line data gathered during field studies and through class activities with other schools on the project.

"We anticipate that as the project develops, high levels of collaboration will develop between teachers and students at the schools, as they share electronically common units of learning, and the results of studies," Trevor Mallard said.

Prime Minister Helen Clark launched another Digital Opportunites project today in Auckland. Project Activate will link 15 schools from the Auckland and Southland regions in an educational network through the use of interactive whiteboards and high-speed internet connections.

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