Computing and Communications

Computing and Communications at Horace Mann School is comprised of an age-appropriate and constantly evolving sequence of skill-based courses that allow students to apply technology broadly throughout their academic and extracurricular activities. The ethical and appropriate use of technology as applied to student life remains central to the instructional experience.

Program Description

Students in the 3s and 4s do not use computers in school. At this young age, children’s fine motor skills are developing and the emphasis is put on hands-on activities and social development. In kindergarten, students are introduced to the computer in school and begin to learn basic navigational and operational skills as well as some creative ones. The teachers introduce software to offer children a new form of creative expression and to reinforce curriculum elements such as numbers, letters and early math awareness. Technology based activities also  help acquaint children with the keyboard layout and basic technology skills. Students experiment with digital cameras for certain projects. 

At our Lower Division, various programs  are used to reinforce skills taught in the primary grades. Keyboarding, word processing skills, and web research using the school database are taught formally starting in third grade. In fifth grade, each student receives a Horace Mann email account and is taught appropriate use and Internet safety. Teachers also introduce web search techniques at this grade level.

All Middle Division students are required to complete a one-trimester course in each grade. The courses cover age-appropriate computer use, including skill mastery and responsible and ethical use of technology for interpersonal communication. Students learn to navigate and manage shared resources in a networked environment.

Upper Division students are required to complete one full-year, half-credit class. Our course offerings include several levels of computer programming (including AP), Desktop Publishing, Web Design, and Media and Culture. Ethical technology use and online privacy issues are included throughout the Upper Division curriculum.