Acer

Abstract

The idea of one-to-one computing (1:1C) with instructional material tailored to the individual learner is not new. However, a continued adherence to the “broadcast model” of learning where the teacher directs the whole of a lesson is holding this approach back. Concepts like “one-computer-one-child” (OCOC) have been in existence since the start of the century, but new one-netbook-one-child policies are making this system more affordable. Other concepts, such as eTwinning have also existed since that time, and a more possible today with affordable network coverage. The chapter presents a case study into a European Union funded programme, called the Acer-European Schoolnet Educational Netbook Pilot Project (AESENPP) which seeks to implement eTwinning and a OCOC policy that takes advantage of blended learning approach alternating different activities, in the form of an online or offline approach that is supported with interactive pen. Six countries participated in AESENPP, with schools interested in exploring how this approach can have an impact on the processes involved in teaching and understand and documenting how learners and teachers can use netbooks in various educational contexts. The chapter describes how three Italian teachers from three schools in Rome and Viterbo are explaining how they coped with this challenge and what the outcomes of their experimentation are. As the experiment is still in action, the Italian teachers decided to give only evidence of their positive experience.