Cathy Taylor - ICT Co-ordinator, St Bernard's Prep School, Slough
An example of a successful application of the Dolphin system in an ICT suite of ten computers with 15 children in a class:
At St. Bernard's Prep School the children in Year 3 use the Dolphin system as an introduction to Windows. At this stage of their learning, the children can competently use a variety of programs on the computer. The next step for them is to learn how to efficiently run two programs simultaneously and transfer information between programs. The Dolphin system provides a step by step process for developing skills in using the features of windows to do just that.
Dolphin also provides a motivational technique in peer tutoring. After initial instruction by the teacher, children work in pairs, one child learning and the other acting as a tutor. The children take their role as tutors very seriously and so they are keen to learn. The fact that they can demonstrate skills to another is proof of their understanding. Peer tutoring also promotes teamwork and develops interpersonal skills.
After completing a module in the Dolphin system, the children then proceed to activities based on the QCA recommendations for their year group. These activities are usually linked to other curricular subjects and support their work in the classroom. The children share their successes as well as assist each other along the way. Experience with the Dolphin system has given them confidence and independence as well as basic ICT knowledge.