Students learn about the presidential election through new app

Posted at: 10/25/2012 5:33 PM | Updated at: 10/25/2012 8:01 PM
By: Joangel Concepcion | WHEC.com

During the presidential election, you might hear about the Electoral College. Do you understand how it works? Some school students are getting a first hand look and it is right in the palm of their hand.

The app was created right here in Rochester and for the last few months it’s been sold all over the nation.  Victor Central School District is the first to use it in our area and what better year to teach them about the Electoral College so close to the election.

Even though eighth graders at Victor Junior High can't vote yet, it doesn't mean these young minds aren't intrigued by this year's presidential debate.

Dan Taylor, Victor Junior High Social Studies Teacher, said, “I think they have a pretty good idea. I bet they have a better idea than most Americans do.”

Dan Taylor has been teaching social studies for 7 years. This year, he decided to take a new approach.  

Taylor said, “In the past some kids are interested but I think this software, kids are so into electronics and games this goes right to them. They totally know how to use it right away.”

Taylor launched "Voter's Ed" on his laptop to explain to students how the Electoral College is broke down and how they will end up choosing their state's electors when they get the chance to vote for a future president. The class has been learning about the electoral vote through a new app called “Voters Ed”. Students get to take a closer look into the electoral process in a more interactive setting.

Noah Hodge, eighth grader, said, “Everybody can do this. It doesn't matter how old or how young.”

Taylor downloaded the app off of his laptop. It is projected onto a smart board.

And with just one touch, students get to look back into history, see how states fluctuate from blue and red over the years. They get to see poll data on a state and national level.    

Seeing first hand how close this race is and then they get to vote as a class.

Erin Norton, eighth grader, said, “I think it was kind of cool because you could understand it more than just like watching the debate on TV.”

Erin Norton says using the app in class has helped her understand what is going on...

Her favorite part is working with her classmates.

Norton said, “You can go up to the Smart Board and kind of interactively help the kids in the class.”

Taylor says some of his kids already sound like they can be political analysts on television. He hopes the students will use the knowledge taught here for the rest of their lives.

Taylor said, “Be good citizens and be really smart about how they vote and understand the whole voting process and how the system works.”

The app is available for purchase online. If you would like to teach your kids at school or at home, click here.

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