Computers and Technology

Students at Morrison Academy Kaohsiung are immersed in a culture of learning through technology.  Every classroom has a SmartBoard and projector system for interactive lessons.  Every teacher has their own laptop and can be ready to teach in any room at any time with our new docking system.  Our school boasts a full computer lab with access to current software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite.  There are also a number of iPads springing up which are offering an even wider educational experience.

All of our students visit the computer lab frequently.  They meet to write blogs and create online presentations.  They edit video and audio using our class set of flip cams to express their ideas.  Teachers frequently accept a variation of formats for student projects that allow a creative flexibility to comprehension and demonstration of knowledge.

Our secondary students (grades 6-9) have access to even more technology opportunities.  Our graphical design program offers classes in Basic and Advanced Photoshop as well as an opportunity to work on our Yearbook (an annual publication that extends around the world) using Adobe Creative Suite 5.

The animation program offers a number of courses in both Stop Frame and Flash Animation.  In Stop Frame Animation, students use software and digital cameras to create movies using hand drawn art, figurines, and any other object (including other students)!  Our Stop Frame class has been internationally recognized and was featured by Stop Motion Pro software who has sponsored our program.  Flash class uses software from Adobe to make animations using only the computer.  Students add sound effects and use multiple layers to manipulate digital shapes to convey ideas through movement.

Another technology class offering is a course on Podcasting.  In this class, students use microphones, a digital mixer, and software to record, edit, and produce their own podcast.  Not only do students develop a technical sense of audio engineering, but they grow in their ability to interview, compose, and creatively discuss topics.  You can hear our podcast through our website (HERE) or by going to iTunes and searching the store for "SharkCast".

New to MAK this year is a media and technology class for our high school students.  In this class, we explore many styles of media.  We break them down to analyze their components and then we use a range of technology from Zoom microphones to HD camcorders and DSLR's to film and record our own projects.  This class looks at digital story-telling, film techniques (camera angles and lighting), documentaries, commercials, green screening, and action sequences.  There is never a dull moment as we work to expand students' digital toolbelt and give them the skills they will use for many years of bringing their ideas to life in a clear and powerful manner for future projects in high school and university.

Technology abounds at MAK.  We firmly believe that students with a grounding in computer skills will make better learners in their future endeavors.  MAK students are making a beautiful digital imprint in our world.  We are excited to see how we can grow and develop our sense of "digital identity" through print, audio, and video in the ever-evolving global community.