Digital photography, computer
animation, graphic design, video production, video game design and Photoshop
are all part of the Accelerated Schools’ elective computer classes. For
the past three years, students have been able to learn these skills on MacBook
Pro laptop computers.
With
small classes of no more than nine students in each class, both high school and
middle school students are able to learn new computer skills based on their
abilities. Students learn about photography, how to use special effects
with photos, make simple animated videos, film and edit green screen video, and
about the elements of graphic design.
These
classes are offered as part of the Accelerated Schools’ elective classes held
each afternoon from 1 to 3 pm. Students have a choice of electives
including art, drama and music, besides the computer classes.
Besides these computer classes, the
Accelerated Schools, through the help of wonderful donors, was able to purchase
24 Google Chromebook computers this past summer. One of the things the students use the
Chromebook computers to work on is Study Island,” an online standards mastery
and test preparation program built from state standards.,” as stated in its
teacher’s manual. “The program allows
teachers to customize instruction to students’ needs while allowing students to
study in standard test format.”
The use of Study Island and the Google
Chromebook computers has enhanced the schools ability to provide each student
internet connection and a computer.
The Chromebooks are also used for NWEA
testing; for the Create A Book elective, a creative writing class; and for
English composition classes.
For
more information about the Accelerated Schools of Overland Park, or to schedule
an appointment, call Jane Curran at 913-341-6666.
