Technology
Mr. Steve’s Tech Arts PageAt ArtSpace Charter School, we follow an integrated, project-based approach, to the utilization of our technological tools. Students are encouraged to explore and apply various technological techniques to demonstrate their understanding of academic content. We build from the tactile in the early grades, to the concrete use of the tools in the upper elementary grades then moving to the creative application of these tools.
As the tools change, from Smart Boards to tablets to laptops, the students learn new ways to access, decipher, and present information. Students begin by manipulating objects on a Smart Board, then move to research and reading on tablets, and finally to claymation and programming on laptops, as students progress in their understanding and utilization of increasingly complex tools and applications. ArtSpace allows students access to technology to demonstrate their understanding of concepts and curricula goals in creative and innovative ways, preparing them to be 21st century citizens.
Students use traditional tools such as word processing and Internet research in classroom settings. They also utilize multimedia programs such as GarageBand, PowerPoint, and iMovie to extend their presentation of ideas and concepts. Students express themselves through the creation of digital video and photography, virtual 3D worlds and structures, and stop-action movies. Students learn both Mac and PC platforms and have access to mobile computer labs, as well as an Explorations Lab for integrated projects. ArtSpace operates on a wireless network which gives each student in every class 100% access to the internet
Students in seventh and eighth grades may choose technology as an elective each quarter. Examples of technology offerings from the past include: live action video and movie making, stop action photography, virtual worlds, bridge design and robotics, coding, and digital music production.
For more information, please contact Mr. Steve.
About Mr. Steve
Since its inception in 1999, Steve has been associated with ArtSpace Charter School. He wrote the school’s first state technology plan as the school’s charter was being finalized. After 10 years in traditional schools, serving as a 4th and 5th grade teacher, technology specialist and media coordinator, Steve joined the original ArtSpace staff as a 5th grade teacher, which he did for 5 ½ years, before transferring into the technology program.
Steve holds a B.S. in Recreational Resources Administration from NC State University, an M.A. in Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and an M.L.S. from Appalachian State University. He completed his teaching certification at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. With over 25 years of experience, he holds North Carolina professional licensure in K-6 General Education, K-12 Computer Science, and K-12 Media Library Science. In addition, Mr. Lipe is a North Carolina A+ Fellow, and has presented integrated technology workshops at regional, state and national conferences.
His personal interests include reading, traveling, camping, and history. His daughter, Alex, is attending college at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, and his wife, Roberta, is a co-founder of ArtSpace Charter School, and an art teacher at Vance Elementary in the Asheville City Schools, where she was chosen as the 2015 Vance Elementary Teacher of the year.