What Is iMA?iMA is Madison Academy's digital learning initiative. It is much more about teaching methodology and learning theory than it is about technology.
Teaching methods have not changed much since the 19th century. Yet we are experiencing a new renaissance that began in the early 80's with the introduction of the personal computer. Since that time, technology has gotten more powerful, housed in smaller devices, and less expensive. The Internet is a super-highway to unfiltered information. That information flows to today's typical Madison Academy student with a device she carries in her pocket. Today's teacher faces a different challenge from his predecessors. Instead of being the sole repository of knowledge, he is the guide through a maze of information and misinformation.
The student is also different from those of past generations. Today's student is a digital native. He grew up with video games. She communicates to her friends through social networking sites and has the dexterity to send a text message at blazing speeds.
iMA will address this new landscape by using digital media to both inform and generate feedback in creative ways. Collaboration and project based assignments will become just as important in the learning environment as they are in Huntsville's high tech work place.