By AMIE WEINBERG, PhD
For PotomacLocal.com
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — As you scan your child’s class room you will find paper, pencils, and backpacks. In addition, you are likely to notice an increase in digital age technologies.
This year, Prince William County Public Schools is allowing students and staff to BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Of course, participants must agree to abide by the county’s Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy, and will be supervised by school personnel. As a result of this new policy, there is likely to be a sharp increase in the number of smart phones, iPads, and notebook computers in Northern Virginia classrooms.
Most teenage smart phone users know how to use their device to find the closest Target or Chipotle. But Smartphones can do much more than help teens fill their stomachs and empty their wallets. Technologies have various affordances, or uses, depending on the user and the reason for which the technology is used. It seems logical, then, to teach students to access their own technology to enhance learning.
Imagine a history teacher facilitating a student debate about the causes and consequences of the Civil War. Participants can simultaneously access appropriate sources and images to secure their debate position.
Some may wonder whether younger students can benefit from the same technologies as older students. Once again, educators must consider the technology and how it can best be used for their student population. For example, there exist an almost unlimited number of apps, most of which are fun, some of which are educationally beneficial. Educators can guide young students toward apps that reinforce spelling skills or Math facts, depending on the child’s needs.
This year, rather than hearing teachers scold students for taking their cell phones to class, you are likely to hear “turn on your cell phones” as the learning continues.
Recent Stories
Manassas City Council held a public hearing on the city’s budget, as residents once again are facing the prospect of paying more in taxes.
On April 22, 2024, at approximately 2:16 a.m., the Manassas City Police Department responded to a 911 call for shots fired in the 9100 block of Winterset Drive.
Early voting for the June Primary Elections in Stafford County begins on Friday, May 3, 2024. The election is on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.
The Prince William County Economic Development and Tourism Department and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce are proud to co-host the upcoming Calibrate Small Business in collaboration with Mason Small Business Development Center.
To celebrate Air Quality Awareness Week (May 6-10, 2024), Clean Air Partners is working with A Few Cool Hardware Stores to exchange DC, Maryland and Virginia residents’ gas-powered lawnmowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers at select Ace Hardware locations in the region. DMV residents who turn in their gas-powered lawn tools will receive a FREE Ego Power+ replacement including batteries and chargers, while supplies last.
Compared to gas, electric lawn equipment can reduce emissions, noise pollution, health risks and maintenance costs and time. The program aims to remove about a hundred gas-powered polluting tools from yards in the greater Baltimore-Washington region.
The exchanges will take place the weekends of May 17-19, 2024, and May 31-June 2, 2024, at A Few Cool Hardware Stores network of employee-owned Ace Hardware stores in the DC and Baltimore metro areas. To participate and get your free Ego Power+ lawn tool, sign up at https://qrco.de/CAPExchange to reserve your tool and select your trade-in date and location.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Do stress and anxiety seem to dominate your thoughts? At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that navigating mental health can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Our team of compassionate therapists is here to guide you on your journey toward inner peace and emotional well-being. With a client-centered approach, we tailor our therapy sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re struggling with depression, coping with trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, we provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
Embark on a path of self-discovery with our comprehensive range of therapy services, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and holistic approaches. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you cultivate resilience, develop coping skills, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness.
Free Irish Music Concert
Welcoming Spring with music from the Emerald Isle, the New Dominion Choraliers offer a FREE concert on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City.
Joined by Legacy Brass and members of Old
Spring Ceili: An Irish Music Festival
The New Dominion Choraliers of Prince William County and McGrath Morgan Academy of Irish Dance invite you to join them at our Ceili, a grand celebration of Irish music and dance.
A gathering of performance groups throughout Prince William County
