Academics: Technology

Technology in the Classroom

Because we live in a largely technocentric world, Orinda Academy teachers believe in the importance of providing students with a skill set to allow them to creatively use digital-age resources and experiences.

We offer computer classes as well as a variety of electives to teach students how to use the tools of technology in the classroom and give them opportunities and challenges for growth and exploration. We have campus-wide wireless internet access to support student-teacher interaction, group work and publication of student work.

Courses offered include:

•    Beginning computers (middle school)
•    Website design
•    Multimedia
•    Digital literacy 
•    Digital yearbook

Computer Instruction

Our Computers I class provides students with a broad introduction on the use of computers as tools for creativity, communications and organizing information. Students will learn and gain mastery of Microsoft Office tools for writing, analyzing and presenting information. In addition, they will gain a practical use of information technology to assist them in coursework throughout high school and college.

As students advance to the Computers II class, they explore more advanced topics in computer technology as well as develop teamwork skills. Students work in small groups on a collaborative project that is presented to the class upon completion.

Multimedia and Web Design

Students learn the aesthetic, technical and conceptual practices of digital imaging and web design. The class provides an introduction to storyboarding and motion graphics and teaches the fundamentals of design, color theory and concept development. Students are introduced to software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and Dreamweaver, Adobe After Effects and Autodesk Mya for 3D modeling and animation.

Yearbook Elective

Production of Orinda Academy's yearbook occurs in our computer lab. Emphasis is on developing the following skills: visual design skills, photography, editiing, journalism, leadership, teamwork, time management and business acumen. Students create pages using Adobe Photoshop and the Lifetouch website and are responsible for the creation and timely submission of pages. The class is open to all interested students.