CAVEAT: This article was spawned by a report on Check News by Skye Ryan here on Vancouver Island that you can find here https://cheknews.ca/they-really-enjoy-this-nanaimo-grade-7-students-become-newscasters-1235673/
Imagine a classroom where students aren’t just rotely absorbing information, they’re actively creating, collaborating, and honing real-world digital skills. As reported by Chek News reporter Skye Ryan, here on Vancouver Island, a Grade 7 French Immersion class at École Quarterway Elementary in Nanaimo, British Columbia, that vision has become a reality. This week, the students showcased their budding talents in journalism on Chek News through their self-produced news broadcast, Quarterway Nouvelle.
Led by teacher Erika Traspedini, this unique initiative is a shining example of how the thoughtful use of technology in classrooms can prepare students for future success when it comes to their use of technology both in and outside the classroom. The weekly broadcast involves students taking on various roles, from anchoring in front of the green screen to operating cameras and managing the production schedule.
As quoted in the news story, “It’s a project that includes everyone,” explains Traspedini. “Some students are in front of the camera, some are behind. At the end of the week, we see the result, and it’s very rewarding.”
Each student brings their strengths to the table. From covering sports to delivering a word of the week in Hul’q’umi’num’, students have found their niched an exciting way to showcase creativity and build confidence.
The benefits extend beyond the immediate thrill of creating a newscast. According to Dan Getz, associate dean of Broadcast and Media Communications at BCIT, projects like this are crucial for fostering media-savvy individuals, “The more media-savvy young people we have in this world, only benefits our society,” he said.
So why did we write this article – some parents not only want to ban cellphones in class, but there is a growing movement to also ban all tech, including laptops, out of classrooms. The success of Quarterway Nouvelle highlights a critical question: what opportunities would students miss if technology were removed from classrooms? Without access to digital cameras, iPads, computers, editing software, and other digital tools including cellphones, these students wouldn’t have had the chance to explore broadcast journalism, develop technical skills, or discover potential career paths.
While some advocate for banning technology in schools to limit distractions, projects like this demonstrate its immense value when integrated thoughtfully. Technology, when used as a tool for learning, fosters collaboration, creativity, and real-world skills, qualities essential for thriving in a rapidly changing world. It’s all about how students are using their tech in schools that really matters.
The Quarterway Nouvelle project will continue until the students graduate in June 2025, giving them a platform to grow their skills and confidence. As the clock ticks toward each week’s broadcast deadline, Traspedini’s students are not just learning about journalism, they’re building a foundation for the future.
By embracing technology in the classroom, we’re not just teaching students to use tools. We’re equipping them to create, innovate, and lead in a digital world. The right use of technology today in schools is an investment in the bright career opportunities of tomorrow.
Big Tip of our White Hat to the teacher and students – job well done!!!
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech
