The Comm 3 students spent their midterm week filming and editing videos for different electives, so that they can give new students a better idea of the kind of classes will be taking.

“I think so many kids will find it easier than the paper process,” said Communications teacher Aaron Thomas. “In this day and age, everything is quick so you can see it right away.”

“We actually post the entire catalog on the website currently, but I would like to see it be more interactive by providing links to videos, samples of student projects, pictures, etc,” said Assistant Principle Barbara Morse. “That would give the students more information about [each] course has to offer beyond the short description in the Program of Studies.”

Since there is a large cost that comes with printing the catalog, the descriptions have to be kept to a minimum. With an electronic catalog and videos, course descriptions can be longer, cost will decrease, and students can make more informed decisions about classes they will be taking next year. Morse said, “Seeing a video about what an engineering student produces on a 3-D printer and listening to that student describe the process can be very valuable additional information added to a course description.”

Mrs.Cindy Normand, Guidance Department Chair, suggests that students choose electives that relate to topics which they would like to study further after graduation. Also, students should be open minded when choosing an elective, because they may discover new interests by taking new classes.

Technology offers students the opportunity to become more interactive with their classes than ever before. However, many people worry that textbooks will go extinct due to new technology. The Rhode Island statewide policy on technology in the classroom, according to the Rhode Island Department of Education, states that “Building a high quality education system is an investment in the future of all Rhode Island students and in the future of Rhode Island’s economy. Virtual Learning Education is a long term strategy that will support a quality education system, preparing students for post secondary education and successful entry into the workforce.”

Freshman Julia Medeiros was first introduced to the courses at NK through the catalog, but she will be a member of the last freshman class to potentially receive it.  “I think the videos will be much more informative for the future and students will be able to choose better electives,” said Medeiros. “I think it’s good to incorporate technology in school because it will help you in the future, but theres [also] an element that you miss about paper and pen in the school.”

Moving beyond the elimination of paper use in catalogs, technology will be everywhere in the classroom, past changing the catalogs. Not only is the high school moving towards a technology based school, but the middle and elementary schools are also beginning to use more technology in their classrooms as well.

“I truly believe NKHS is at the forefront of technology centered schools,” said Normand. “All students will receive Chromebooks next year, our Careers Department has an incredible list of electives in the technology field, teachers use smart boards, and many teachers incorporate technology into their classroom lessons.”