Circular 10/2008                                                                               13 February 2008

Dear Parents

TEACH WITH A STING

It is a well known, educational fact, that learning takes place more effectively if more than one sense is used.  With this in mind and because technology has become more user friendly, the educators of Durbanville Primary plan to use a didactical approach whereby available technology will be used in such a manner, that it enhances all learning styles.

In our Dur Bee SMS, dated 1 February 2008, we indicated that the theme of the year is:  “Teach with a Sting”.

During the past two years, educators have been experimenting with the interactive white board and many of our colleagues are already familiar with this technology.  At present, our educators are receiving PowerPoint training, however, many of them have already mastered this technology.  The aim is therefore, to implement the latest technology (computer in the classroom, plasma screens against the walls, etc).  This will bring reality into the classroom.  Educators are already using the computers very effectively in the classrooms, but they are experiencing problems in presenting videos (the visual impact) and learning material from the internet to the learners.  It is self explanatory that learners will learn more about the eruption of volcanoes from a video than from listening passively.  We would like to assure you, that this new approach will not be a new gimmick which will replace tried and tested methods of teaching, but will be used as a teaching aid like the overhead projector, the chalkboard and the pin-up boards.  We must, however, move with the times and we therefore believe that the latest technology will be to the benefit of every learner in the classroom.

We therefore take the liberty of requesting assistance from any parent or institution interested in providing expertise/sponsorship towards implementing the latest technology in our school. We kindly request you to complete the reply-slip, should you be able to assist us so that the Governing Body can facilitate actions.  Please see the reply-slip.  The Governing Body and Durbie Action 2008 have already indicated their financial support towards this initiative, but to implement this in every classroom instead of certain work stations, we need the capital.

Hire purchase of computers

To partially address the above-mentioned, the Governing Body has already given permission (GB meeting 4 February 2008) for a hire purchase agreement, whereby 34 new computers will be purchased.

Input as asked above, will contribute towards the project being fully addressed.  As previously mentioned, we must rely on the present budget to address our school’s enormous electricity supply problem.

We trust that we can rely on our community to support us in this new project, as every learner and future learner at Durbanville Primary will reap the benefits of this project.

Durbanville greetings

J.C. Swart

PRINCIPAL

TEACH WITH A STING

1.                  I, Mr/Mrs ……………………………………., parent/guardian of ……………………………. in Gr ……………. am prepared by means of my expertise and/or financial contribution to support the above-mentioned project.

2.                  I am prepared to attend an information meeting regarding “Teach with a Sting” / am unable to attend the meeting.  (Underline that which is applicable.)