High-Tech Classroom Takes Root

By Gayle Perez
The Pueblo Chieftain
September 14, 2006

It's a sure bet that when Cedar Ridge Elementary School teacher Tracie Skoglund stands in front of her class, the students will watch, listen and learn.

Using one of the newest tools in classroom technology, Skoglund brings to life lessons in math and science, language arts and music through the tap of a pen on an enlarged computer screen.

Chieftain Photo/Mike Sweeney

The Internet-connected system, which also offers hands-on classroom programs, has brought a new way of teaching to Skoglund's second-graders.

"I can't say enough about this system and what it has brought into my classroom," Skoglund said as she demonstrated the Promethean board on Thursday. "You can do so many things with this and not just in one or two subjects, but in every subject."

The Promethean board, which was developed in the United Kingdom, allows teachers to engage students in learning by using an interactive whiteboard that is connected to a computer.

Teachers are able to use visual aids, animation, sound and other such aids to teach their lessons.

The system also allows for instant access to the Internet which allows for teachers to instantaneously tap into it as a resource tool.