Program Details

 Faculty Laptop Program

Initial development of the Faculty Laptop Program began with an assessment of laptop use to date. The history of laptops at Dalton centered on the use of classroom sets of laptops shared by grade level and discipline. Development also included a review of current literature on laptop use in primary and secondary education.

The first invitation to participate in the Laptop Program went out to the faculty in the spring of 2002. The invitation provided a program overview and details which clearly delineated both the hardware, software, and training offered, as well as the responsibilities of any teachers who chose to participate. The first year started with thirty-seven participants and followed the second year with forty-five additional participants. Thirty-nine faculty members participated in the third summer of the program.

In preparation for the workshops, participants completed an initial survey which established curricular interests and current technical skills. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, time was allocated during the two-week session for faculty members to acquire additional expertise and develop class projects. Documentation of the process also included interviews during the workshop and feedback in the form of written comments at the end of the session. Two interviews and a classroom visit with each faculty member took place during the first school year following participation in the workshops.

Through this program of ownership and training, teachers are now better equipped to use technology for curriculum integration and personal productivity.

What was provided?
The school provided the following: a quality laptop with a 3-year warranty; school-owned software and updates; up to fifty dollars towards the purchase of a carrying case. The teacher had exclusive use of the laptop from the beginning and owned the computer outright at the end of three years. In addition to receiving the laptop, the faculty member also attended training, which was a key requirement for the success of this program.

Compensation

The ownership of the laptop and the training itself served as the compensation.

What was expected from the NLTL?

NLTL staff provided technical and curricular support throughout the program. NLTL staff also facilitated the workshops. This included conducting the technology training and collaborating in curriculum development. In addition, NLTL documented the faculty laptop program in its entirety. The documentation process included both formal and informal interviews throughout the life of the faculty's participation. The New Lab did this in order to improve their own professional development and technical support, and to share with others the results and insights gained from the program.

Assessment and Renewal

A short survey outlining the faculty's goals and a self-assessment was required in the beginning of the program and at the end of each year. This self-assessment allowed for a gauge and guide to a teacher's development as well as provided quantitative analysis data for the renewal of the program three years from now. Pending this renewal, all teachers will be given the opportunity to receive a new laptop on a continuing three-year cycle.

Eligibility

Full-time faculty members and part-time faculty members .5 and greater who were able to fulfill the training component and other requirements were eligible. Part-time faculty members (less than .5), associate teachers, and staff were not eligible.