Chalkboards, desks becoming old school

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Teachers at Bowie High School are feeding information to students in a way they can relate.

Chalkboards, traditional desks and worksheets are out. Remote controls, digital screens and texting is in. Well, sort of.

In the education circle, these new high-tech classrooms are part of a fresh concept called "project-based" learning that is picking up speed in schools across the country.

New teaching tools include hand-held remotes that students use to answer questions and conduct research. According to the Austin Independent School District , these technologies have been proven to increase student participation and engagement.

Students have embraced the change they are already familiar with in the outside world. The district hopes it will help them compete in the 21st century job market.

The technology provides teachers with instant feedback on student progress and comprehension, transforming the way teachers teach.