Schools delve into 'Atomic Learning'
By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

Despite what the name suggests, Atomic Learning does not mean Cherokee County schools have gone "nuclear" with technology.

The school district has simply added Atomic Learning as a web-based software training resource.

Teachers, students and parents can use the Web site to view online video tutorials that cover the basics on using 110 computer applications.

"It's like having a technology specialist in every classroom, said Chad Hudson, district director of instructional technology. "Teachers and students will be able to type in any question and find their answer on a wide variety of technology topics."

County schools have continued to add more technology into classrooms in recent years. This has allowed teachers to do video conferences, use mini-computers with students and interactive electronic whiteboards for teaching math and science.

The district has purchased 350 whiteboards over the past two school years. The new Blacksburg and Gaffney High ninth grade classrooms will have whiteboards.

The district decided to purchase Atomic Learning as a way to provide more training in technology outside of school classrooms. The dis- trict introduced the software training program in schools in November. The video tutorials can be viewed in English or Spanish.

"We hope it will reduce the time needed to teach the technology and increase the time teachers can spend in class on course content," Hudson said.

Teachers and students can access the service by logging onto: www.AtomicLearning.com. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Parents can sign up for the service by contacting their schools.