Technology at Westminster Academy: Uses and Benefits

Here at Westminster Academy, we mostly have an old-school approach to technology in learning — our students primarily use pencils, papers, and books. Personal phones and tablets are not used in the classroom. This limits distractions and encourages discipline.

However, we do recognize the value that technology can provide. Our goal is to use all the tools available, technological included, to enhance our students' education. With this in mind, we do not have a completely technology-free classroom. Westminster Academy students benefit from two types of technology: Chromebooks and online curriculum programs. Read on to learn more.

Westminster Academy uses Chromebooks for in-class research

The internet can be an incredibly fast and valuable tool for research. By allowing the use of Chromebooks in the classroom, we encourage students to learn how to ask the right questions to find the answers they’re looking for. Additionally, a simple online search offers thousands of results that students must sift through to determine what’s applicable. This teaches them to compartmentalize information and overall improves their research skills.

Online curriculum programs are an educational tool for many students

Many students at Westminster Academy use online curriculum programs as a primary form of education. For example, Calvert Homeschool offers a complete curriculum with interactive lessons, assignments, quizzes, and projects. This is a good option for more independent, self-starter students who are able to pace themselves.

In addition to these programs, Westminster Academy has access to a variety of online worksheets, activities, and projects that we can use to enrich students’ comprehension of certain concepts.

There is so much technology out there for us to make use of. Though we want to make sure distractions in the classroom are limited, we are also open to careful use of any tool that will better our students’ educational experiences.

Please contact Angelyn Dodson at Westminster Academy with any questions about our technology policies.