New Tech Academy - Academics
How we learn?
Project-based learning(PBL), is a dynamic approach to teaching where students explore real-world problems and challenges, while simultaneously developing cross-curriculum skills and managing to working in small collaborative groups. Project-based learning is filled with active and engaged learning, and it inspires students to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they’re studying.
How are we evaluated?
New Tech assesses students with school wide learning outcomes (SWLO) in all courses as part of New Tech Network’s commitment to college and career readiness. SWLO measures students’ abilities to problem-solve, collaborate, create solutions, use technology, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations using Critical Thinking, Oral Communication, Written Communication, Collaboration, Numeracy, and Professionalism. The learning outcomes account for 50 percent of the students grade with the other 50 percent coming from content alone.
What tools do we use to learn?
Echo is New Tech Network’s learning management system (LMS) designed to support Project-based learning, facilitate communication and collaboration, and improve teacher practice. Teachers, students, and parents at New Tech high schools use Echo on a daily basis to access course resources, project plans, assignments, a multi-dimensional grade book, online groups, and an extensive library of instructional resources for teachers. Echo is delivered as a web-based service that is accessible 24/7 via any web browser with an Internet connection. It is built on New Tech’s deep experience with technology-enhanced, PBL instruction and assessment practices, and it includes access to hundreds of exemplary projects that can be easily customized and implemented by teachers. As a result, Echo is an integral component of New Tech Network’s professional development programs.