Study Skills and Technology
Equipping students with a robust toolkit of study skills is a cornerstone of The Oakland Way that benefits children long after they leave our grounds. Content classes at Oakland such as science and social studies are taught as Study Skills classes with the goal of helping students become successful in all classes at Oakland and to prepare them to be successful in school after Oakland. Most study skills do not come naturally, especially for children with learning difficulties. Therefore, skills are taught both in isolation and then integrated throughout the curriculum. Some of the key study skills taught include the following:
- learning the parts of a book including title page, table of contents, index and glossary;
- effective use of reference materials;
- efficient and pertinent note taking from books, whiteboards/chalkboards, lectures and media;
- test preparation and test taking strategies;
- memorization techniques;
- learning how to become a flexible reader by exposure to skimming, scanning and other techniques; and
- comprehensive report preparation and writing.
Study skills instruction at Oakland is designed to enhance organizational skills both in terms of materials and time management. Homework is given, but assignments are manageable and meaningful. In addition, hands-on activities supplement traditional classroom instruction.
Technology
Technology is a key component of the larger study skills program. Oakland’s academic program leverages PCs throughout the curriculum to enhance classroom instruction. Students complete most of their writing on PCs and are taught keyboarding and proofing skills as well as how to use spell check and grammar check. Students also learn how to prepare PowerPoint presentations. Additionally, various software applications are used in all areas of the curriculum to promote student interest, reinforce concepts and provide guided practice.
