Middle School Students Get a Lesson in High Tech Learning

"It’s different to talk about something versus have your hands on it and play with the controls."

Mississippi's dropout rate is at an alarming high. Experts believe part of the problem is that students are simply bored. MPB's Lawayne Childrey reports how educators are using technology in the classroom to stimulate learning.

Educators are putting a whole new spin on learning. Friday in Jackson, 13 year old SirRodric Wheaton, from Hardy Middle School , joined dozens of other Mississippi students for a look at how video games and other technology are revolutionizing learning.

“And I feel that, that’s a good thing because now we can make learning fun.”

By incorporating full scale flight simulators, aviation video games and surgical simulations Randy Pearce, Chairman of the Aviation Department at Hinds Community College says children get a better understanding of real world technology.

“Well just look at the kids around the table now, they are excited about what they are looking at. They are actually manipulating the controls and it’s different to talk about something versus have your hands on it and play with the controls, push the yolk forward, back. Move the controls on a simulated aircraft or a simulated medical surgical station, it’s just exciting for them.”

One of those students was 8th grader Joshua Hodge from Utica.

“Try to keep the plane level, and keep the plane distance. And keep the plane from flipping over and me falling out.”

While flight simulators may seem a little extreme for some class rooms, Dr. Lisa Johnson Assistant Principal at Hardy Middle School says the same enthusiasm can be achieved by allowing students to use tools like iPods and cell phones.

“They can even text an essay on the text messages as well. Email process, students love to talk and communicate through email. This is a way that we can bring our students, even with the games. The games that they have out today if we would use them all towards educational games with the video games children would be more excited. And this is something, being able to apply to everyday life.”

Experts say the new focus on technology keeps students motivated and prepares them for the highly technical jobs of today and tomorrow. For MPB News, I'm Lawayne Childrey.