Students use computers on a regular basis. And now--many students have their own laptops and electronic notebooks.
Instead of cell phones, you may find a host of new devices in backpacks. Channel 8's Kim Jackson has details in a new growing trend.
In today's world, we can sometimes type as fast as we can talk and for that reason students are wanting to bring their laptops into the classroom.
William Rocha uses his personal laptop in nearly every class, including calculus.
"It helps me in class it is easier to write. I don't write very fast so I can type it. I get things done quickly especially essays," said Rocha.
His friends have them too. And all of his teachers so far, have accepted laptops into their classrooms.
"Education is evolving. We are figuring out how to use the technology. For example we all use laptops in computer science class that you really don't need the Internet to focus on the basis of computer science," said Phil Hammond, calculus teacher.
And the Internet is not readily available. William showed us what happened when he tried to log on. He would need special permission to access wireless Internet service.
Even though they are supposed to be off and away, his cell phone allows him access to social sites, like Facebook.
"We are ok with kids having them and using them as long as they check with the teacher and the teacher is fine with what it is going to be used for," said principal Derrick Schmidt.
Mostly, they are used for note-taking and for projects in computer science.
Teachers expect to see more laptops and notebooks, But administrators are concerned about theft and safety so are the students who own them.
"I don't keep it out of my sight. I always carry it wherever I go. I don't leave it anywhere," said William.
Occasionally someone does find a wireless connection. If students abuse the privilege, teachers have the authority to make students shut their computers down.
So far here at Edison high, they have not had to confiscate anyone's laptop or notebook but as more students bring electronics into the school, they may have to come up with more rules.
