Technology
How is Olney’s approach to technology different from other schools?
Olney is different from other schools in its commitment to understanding the relationship between technology and community. Technology is constantly changing. How can Olney’s traditional values, derived from the Quaker testimonies, inform our use of technology? For example, what does integrity mean in the context of Facebook and Twitter? How does our online life intersect with real life? Our challenge — students and adults together — is to work out approaches to technology that make our learning environment richer and our community life stronger.
We see technology as a valuable supplement to individualized instruction. We structure the academic day to maximize the amount of face-to-face interaction students have with each other and with teachers. Recreational technology use — computers, cell phones, video games, and other devices — is restricted to non-academic hours. Policies are in place to limit the amount of recreational screen time during off hours. Internet is not available in the dorms. While we do not require students to bring a laptop to school, we do encourage a “bring your own device” approach and offer support for student machines.
Olney is unique because of the friendships that are formed here. We are a small, close-knit community. Staff and students work, play, and eat together. We appreciate difference. Our goal is to not just make smarter people, but to make better people. This extends to our approach to technology.
You may be surprised by what we offer:
- SMART Board displays in humanities and chemistry classrooms
- Classrooms equipped with projectors and other AV gear
- 20 Linux-based student workstations in the computer lab and library
- Robust internet backbone
- Wifi available through the Main Building
- Digital Filmmaking and Web Design electives
- Tech Crew: student interest group that builds PCs, learns PERL, runs tech for school events, and advises on school policy
-Roger Reynolds, Technology Coordinator and Digital Filmmaking and Web Design teacher