 The 21st century students’ potential for innovation and creativity, coupled with their multi-tasking abilities and technological experience, call for a revolution in how we teach and engage them to their full capacities. In Orange County, educators inspire and support the success of students by providing relevant curriculum, tapping into their perspectives, and utilizing the technologies that are a part of their daily lives.
California Technology Assistance Project (CTAP)
http://edtech.ocde.us
The California Technology Assistance Project (CTAP) is a statewide educational technology leadership initiative, providing assistance to schools and districts in integrating technology into teaching and learning. In Orange County, CTAP provides hands-on classes, workshops, and institutes offered in training labs. In addition, customized training services are available to school and district sites.
Distance Learning
www.ocde.us/technology
Distance learning is a rapidly growing field within education. Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) is actively involved in researching, developing and implementing distance-learning solutions that can be used effectively by educators and students. OCDE offers a collaborative, online whiteboard environment called Elluminate to facilitate meetings and professional development over the Internet. Also offered are live web casts of meetings and trainings through a QuickTime streaming server.
Interactive Learning
http://vc.ocde.us
OCDE supports interactive videoconferencing networks that enable schools and districts in Orange County to connect to learning content outside of the classroom. OCDE works with organizations like National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the California State Parks to produce standards-based interactive courses that can be accessed through the network. Also supported is the use of desktop videoconferencing as a tool for collaborative learning in schools throughout the county.
Orange County Animation Project
http://animation.ocde.us
In cooperation with various school districts, Regional Occupational Programs, colleges and universities in Orange County, and the Action Coalition for Media Education (ACME) Network, OCDE supports the creation of animation programs in K-12 learning environments to develop the necessary pathways to prepare students for careers in animation. The project prepares students for a broad range of artistic careers, including every aspect of animation, interactive games, and design. Through the partnership with the ACME Network, students receive professional feedback on their animation through videoconferencing and an interactive web site.
Orange County Online
http://oconline.ocde.us
Orange County Online is an online learning management system that enhances face-to-face class instruction. The virtual office hours and calendars encourage student accountability and promote parents to take a more active role in their child's education.