Mobile Learning Lab helps students make big steps in academics

BALTIMORE, Md - Students are hard at work at Reginald F. Lewis High School in Northeast Baltimore. It is not your typical classroom.

The Verizon Wireless Mobile Learning Lab pulls up twice a week in front of the school to offer academic help.

"I have not really seen it anywhere else.  I like that our school is being different and participating in the program," said Dasha Hicks, a senior.

The Mobile Learning Lab pairs students with mentors from Morgan State University to prep for SATS using Samsung Tablets and educational applications.

"I think I am helping the students.  I'm not only a tutor, I'm a role model because I am in college so I ask them what are their goals and what do they want to do.  The same things asked of me before I attended college.  They are able to see someone like me who is in college and who can tell you how to prepare for classes and the importance of the SAT's," said Tamera Lyons, Morgan State University student and Tutor/Mentor.

The school has faced a number of challenges.  Dr. Barney Wilson is the School Principal.  He has been instrumental in turning things around for students.

He says technology is a real game changer for students.

"The students are learning that we live in an age of technology and certainly they expect to have technology be a part of their learning experience.  If something happens.  It has to happen because they are engaged.  This Mobile Learning Lab allows students to be able to dive deeper into what it takes to get a good score on the SAT," said Dr. Barney Wilson, Principal, Reginald F. Lewis High School.

For the first time mobile learning devices have been brought into the classroom.  Five classes use 30 New Galaxy Samsun Tablets powered by Verizon Wireless 4G  LTE Network for lessons in Spanish I, II and Advanced Placement Spanish.

Three other schools in Baltimore also participate in the Mobile Learning Lab including:  Achievement Academy High School, Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School and Baltimore City College High School.