Community Education program brochures Metro North ABE - Consortium newsletter, Jan. 2015 | Page 6

Technology in ABE The year—1977. Early PCs like the Apple II, the Commodore PET, and Radio Shack’s TRS-80 were newly on the market. The cost of these technological dandies was $1,200$3,000, but they went on to sell millions. The Apple II was the only one with a full-color graphics-capable display, and eventually became the best-seller among the trinity, with more than 4 million units sold. Today’s Adult Basic Education classroom is a far cry from those early days. The use of modern technology as a tool for learning enhances the education of adult learners, opens up new methods of teaching, and extends alternative learning opportunities to new groups of students. The thoughtful integration of technology into the traditional classroom is necessary to ensure students have the necessary tools needed to thrive in a complex and rapidly changing technological society. Since the new GED© 2014 is a computerized test, adult learners must be proficient in word processing and using techniques like a drop down menu or drag-and-drop test items. “Digital technologies for learning, such as self-paced learning modules, multimedia case studies, simulations, video tutorials, and communications and assessment tools, can increase the array of learning opportunities for adult students and their teachers” (US Dept of Ed, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education). The Minnesota Literacy Council offers a wide variety of free technology training and distance learning opportunities for staff, volunteers, and learners. The Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment is a tool ABE teachers use to help assess the technology needs of students. Metro North ABE teachers strive to engage all learners in the use of technology. Computer labs at all sites are 6 Metro North Consortium available for students to access to learn basic digital literacy skills or to apply for jobs and create resumes. Some sites offer specific classes in the computer labs, while others offer individualized instruction during independent study. Distance learning programs like P lato, Skills Tutor, Mindquest, I-Pathways, and USA Learns are platforms that teachers use to encourage learners to continue their studies in the classroom or from the privacy of their homes. Some Metro North ABE sites like Blaine and Elk River will also be implementing the use of Google Chromebooks in the classroom as soon as they can be purchased and properly established. Register for a wide variety of free technology training courses on the MN Literacy Council’s website at: http://online.themlc.org. In the spring of 2014, the Metro North ABE site at Columbia Heights/Fridley received funding from the AmeriCorps Community Technology Empowerment Project (CTEP) for a volunteer to serve in their Adult Education Center. AmeriCorps CTEP bridges the digital divide for new immigrants and low-income communities in Minneapolis and St. Paul. AmeriCorps CTEP members make the Information Age accessible to all. CTEP partner organizations include: St. Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN), the Community Computer Access Network (CCAN), the City of Minneapolis, and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR). Josh Katzenmeyer officially began his role as the CTEP volunteer working at CHF site on September 4, 2014, and will serve Metro North until September 2015. Josh is currently providing technology training for interested ABE learners that include basic computer skills, introduction to e-mailing, and an introduction to the Internet. For further information about CTEP volunteering or class offerings, please contact the Columbia Heights/Fridley ABE Supervisor Kathleen Moriarty [email protected], or CTEP volunteer Josh Katzenmeyer [email protected]. Metro North Adult Basic Education | Ph: 763-783-4870 | www.MetroNorthABE.org