Computer-Based Learning
As more educators incorporate computer-learning activities in their classrooms, the more schools have to make adjustments to support such a curriculum. With a growing number of classes under pressure to increase their sizes from previous years due to fiscal constraints, optimizing your student-to-computer ratio is one way to get as much mileage as possible from your existing resources.
Rather than have individual students take turns on a computer, placing multiple students around a computer can save time and create team-based learning environments. The equipment needed to do so consists of nothing more than a stereo jackbox and some stereo headphones, depending upon how many students you want to have at any given time. Califone expanded the listening centers to accommodate more students and now any number of students from 4 to 6 and up to 8 can participate on a computer activity.
If certain computer activities require vocal responses for students to be able to listen to the playback and check their progress, a different type of stereo jackbox comes into play. The USB jackbox easily connects to a computer’s USB port and allows up to six students to work together for multi-modal exposure. Says Aron Sterling, a technology specialist from Fairfax, VA: “The 1216USB ties microphones, headphones & computers together to create learning centers which encourage students to develop and use their own critical thinking skills.” Using this jackbox in conjunction with lightweight stereo headsets creates a USB listening center that assists students with podcasting and language learning as well. Another listening center that utilizes USB technology is the wireless computer listening center, which has no need for a jackbox and comfortably makes computer learning fun for students who gather within the 15’ line of sight range. The priceless benefits of these listening centers complement everyday curriculums and give students an advantage as they attain their education.
