This is definitely a year for change. The curriculum for Computer Literacy at Fretz Middle School is now 9 weeks long for each grade level. I really hope that with this extra time that students can get a solid understanding of Information Technology and with intensive daily practive acquire high Keyboarding Skills. AES: Applied Educational Systems is an IT Information Technology self-paced learning program designed for the individual learner. It is PSSA Standards based where the student with the use of head phones is engaged in active- learning. The program is designed to question and monitor student progress on a real time basis. I have found this program a positive influence for the struggling learner particularly with reading difficulties. Students need to purchase, either at the school store or on their own, a set of ear buds or headphones. Most of the mp3 earbuds will work. Strive to have the longer cords since they need to be plugged into the back of the computer. We tried extensions last year, but they did not work adequately. The school store will have them available for a cost of $4.00. This has become necessary. Mavis 15: Mavis Teaches Typing is a self-paced keyboarding instructional program that examines the student's progress and advances the level of work based on his or her performance. In addition, the student is rewarded by being given opportunities to play video games where the score is based on keyboarding success of speed and accuracy. Students make a greater effort and spend more time in class and homebase practicing skills to enhance their game scores. With the additional time available, we expect the student to reach higher proficiency keyboarding skills in speed and accuracy.