St. Ursula Academy launches Tablet PC program

using pen-based technology

students and teachers have their own computers 24/7

Cincinnati, Ohio – Aug. 7, 2006- St. Ursula Academy has launched its One-to-One Tablet PC Program this school year for all teachers and incoming freshmen. To prepare for the new technology, students and teachers have attended several training sessions before school begins on Aug. 16.  The sessions covered all applications the students and teachers will be implementing using pen-based technology and the Tablet PCs, including DyKnow – a secure shared note-taking process that sends out what the teacher is presenting on his/her tablet to the students’ tablets where they can add their own notes and save it all on the tablet to access later outside of the classroom. (see www.dyknow.com/products/vision/).  Key advantages and features of the Tablet PCs include:

·         Students have their own Tablet PC and can use inside and outside the classroom

·         New pen-based technology and a swivel screen allows students to write directly on the screen just like writing in a notebook

·         Students and teachers can communicate in and out of class

·         Students learn to organize digital materials and learn time management skills

·         Teachers can implement different types of learning activities for different types of learners

·         Students and teachers can access on-line textbooks, library links, electronic resources, e-mail, calendar, and other information

·         Tablet PCs are lightweight, mobile computers, approximate size of legal pad

·         Tablet PCs are capable of wireless access to Internet and campus network

·         Tablet PCs eliminate need for carrying most textbooks and other school supplies

·         Tablet PCs enhance teaching and provide more efficient and productive learning 24/7

·         See www.saintursula.org/technology for more information

            Says Principal Frances Romweber, “The Tablet PC Program is aligned to the commitment of St. Ursula Academy to provide excellence in education long after school hours.  It is a tool that enhances teaching and provides for more efficient and productive learning around the clock.  Technology needs to be in the hands of the students 24/7.  Access to it cannot and ought not to be limited to technology labs or equipment isolated from student use beyond  the school house door.  The Tablet PC elevates student learning to new heights where global knowledge, text books, student files and communication are within reach anytime day or night.”   

            St. Ursula Academy is a Catholic, college-preparatory, secondary school for young women.  In 2002 the academy was recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School. The campus, located at 1339 E. McMillan Street in East Walnut Hills has been the home of St. Ursula Academy and Convent since 1910.