Elementary School Builds Collaborative Learning Classroom

  • 12/19/12

Eastern Maryland Elementary School recently completed installation of its new computer lab featuring new tables and furnishings designed to foster collaborative learning environment.

The school's new classroom includes FFIT Computer Floor and iGroup Collaboration tables from SmartDesk. The FFIT Computer Floor, comprised of carpet tiles adhered to a four-pedestal platform, is laid over 24 power and data cables. The cables and power cords run to each computing station. The floor is designed for portability; the tiles can be moved to other rooms or buildings if needed.

The iGroup Collaboration tables, with height-adjustable legs, are arranged in triangles throughout the room. The tables are equipped with SmartDesk iDrawers, lockable storage drawers that come with power and data outlets. Data cables can support devices using RJ45 cat6 connections. The school plans to outfit the tables with Windows 8 desktops with "large touchscreen monitors and small towers," according to a statement from the company.

Additional details about SmartDesk tables and flooring can be found at the company's Web site.

Featured

  • stylized human profiles, tablets, and floating icons

    From Feedback to Flexibility: 5 AI Tools Teachers Should Try

    As a fifth-grade teacher and AI School Champion in the St. Vrain Valley School District, I've seen firsthand how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education. Here are five AI-enabled tools I've found especially powerful in my classroom and professional practice.

  • computer monitor with a bold AI search bar on the screen

    Google Rolls Out AI Mode in Search

    About a year after introducing AI Overviews for its flagship search offering, Google has announced broad availability of AI Mode in Search.

  • portable Wi-Fi hotspot rests on a stack of books and a laptop in a library

    Senate Votes to Rescind E-Rate Program Funding Loaner WiFi Hotspots for Schools and Libraries

    The Senate has passed a joint resolution to overturn "Addressing the Homework Gap Through the E-Rate Program," a July 2024 expansion to the FCC's E-Rate program that allowed schools and libraries to utilize E-Rate resources to loan out WiFi hotspots to students, school staff, and library patrons.

  • silhouetted student stands before the White House, surrounded by abstract digital graphics of brains, circuits, and AI elements

    White House Sets Sights on AI Education

    A new executive order from President Donald Trump aims to advance America's position in artificial intelligence technology by incorporating AI into education and providing AI training for educators.