Using the Latest Technology to Support

Young Children in Science and Math

NAEYC Technology Position Statement

        Gail Laubenthal, Pre-K Sanchez Elementary                               laubenthalladybugs.pbworks.com

              glaubent@austinisd.org

       Robbie Polan, NBCT, Pre-K, Kindergarten                                    kinderpandas.pbworks.com

                robbie.polan@gmail.com

Gail participates in BLOCKS (Base Line Objectives for Children's Knowledge and Skills) for Science. BLOCKS is a 3 year project funded through a grant to the University of Texas Center for Science and Mathematics Education from the National Science Foundation. The first years focus was on physical science. The children explored force and motion and properties of matter and change. Last years focus was on life science, with the children experiencing growth and change in both plants and animals. This years focus is on earth science. 25 prekindergarten teachers in the Austin area are participating in this research based project. Guidance and support comes from the following mentors: Dr. Mary Hobbs, Dr. Elizabeth Sherwood, Dr. Aida Alanis, Dr. Brian Anderson, and Dr. Bob Williams.

TechnoScientists: Techno 4: The Process - Engaging, Empowering, Enriching, Enabling

TechnoScientists is a project that provides hands-on opportunities to learn a variety of skills, strategies, and best practices that improves teaching and learning for both teachers and students.  The goals are to promote essential 21st century skills and NETS while enhancing effective technology integration in the classroom.  TechnoScientists is now in its fourth year with over 100 participating teachers in Austin ISD.  This is the fourth year that Gail and Robbie have participated in this program.  It is the brainchild of Vanessa Jones (vanessa. jones@austinisd. org), AISD technology trainer and technology support for the district.