Creative Classroom Online - Tech for Learning

Kathy Schrock's Tech Quest

The first thing to think about is the computer's location. Of course, it would be nice to have it behind your desk for creating tests and checking e-mail, but then your students wouldn't get a chance to use it. The best scenario is to set it up as a learning center with workspace for three or four students.

Second, you need to define computer expectations and rules at the start of the school year. Some tips are:

Create separate folders for each student with shortcuts on the computer desktop where they can store their work.
Place "how-to" sheets near the computer that list solutions to common problems and questions, such as "How do I lower the volume?"
Have a way kids can "call for help" from the teacher without interrupting the class (e.g., a red cup placed on top of the monitor).
Train a group of students as computer mentors for their classmates.
Create a schedule that rotates students through the computer station, and place assignment task cards next to the computer.

Third, you need to think about the different ways you can use the computer. In the classroom, a computer can be used in three ways: as an administrative tool, an instructional tool, and a learning tool.

Administrative tool The beginning of the school year is an ideal time to have a computer to help you with administrative duties. Once you learn how to use the software and set up some templates, it can streamline your administrative tasks throughout the year. Some ways you can use your computer include:

Using desktop publishing/word processing software to make classroom signs and name tags for desks

Creating a database of student information and merging it into documents to personalize letters, certificates, birthday cards, etc.

Using desktop publishing/word processing software or interactive Internet sites to create worksheets, quizzes, and tests

Making spreadsheets to track grades, book order monies, etc.

Sending e-mail to communicate with busy administrators and parents

Using presentation software to create a "Back-To-School Night" overview for parents

Instructional tool You can use your classroom's computer as a whole-class interactive teaching device by adding just a few simple tools. With an inexpensive scan converter, for example, you can use a TV as your monitor so that all students can easily see the screen at once. Some of the many things you can do when the whole class can view the monitor include:

Using presentation software, such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Hyperstudio, to create an itinerary, overview, or lesson summary for the students

Using concept-mapping software, such as Inspiration (see below) to create (or have kids create) story maps or webs, flowcharts, or time lines in a class brainstorming session

Demonstrating how to use a new piece of software or other computer concept

Teaching basic information literacy skills, such as keyword and Boolean searching using CD-ROM encyclopedias or Internet search engines

Taking the class on a "virtual" field trip through predetermined sites that support your curriculum

Teaching students how to evaluate Internet sites

Learning tool The most important use of your computer is as a learning tool. Because it's often difficult to create projects where the entire class can effectively use one computer at the same time, many teachers use their computer as a small part of a larger cooperative learning project. Whether groups of students are visiting Internet sites that support a unit or project, creating a spreadsheet and graph of data they collected from a survey or a science lab, or working on an ongoing classroom yearbook, it is important that they are using the computer for a specific purpose.

Since time at the computer is limited, have paper planning sheets available so students can think about and write down their ideas and strategies before they sit down at the computer. It is also helpful to have task cards next to the computer to remind the groups of what they should be doing. And don't forget to post the cooperative learning "rules and regulations" nearby to help keep groups working well together.

As you become more comfortable with the computer in your classroom, you will come up with many more creative ideas. It's amazing what a difference just one computer can have on your teaching.

Sources: Finding out more information These resources offer more suggestions for using one computer in your classroom.

http://kathyschrock.net/1computer/1computer.htm Link to over 20 online articles with tips for the one-computer classroom.

Great Teaching in the One Computer Classroom

by David A. Dockterman (Tom Snyder, 1998). This book offers advice on how one computer can help with many teaching tasks.

Managing Technology in the One-Computer Classroom

by Susan L. Gimotty (Teacher Created Materials, 1999). Learn about management tips, learning center ideas, and activities you can do with one computer.

Thoughts: Afterward, reflect on your quest

How can you use your one computer to challenge gifted students and help those who need more support?

How can you use your computer to target the multiple intelligences and learning styles of all students in the classroom?

How would your teaching differ with two classroom computers?

MEETING THE STANDARDS
This month's Tech Quest addresses two ISTE standards: III.a. Facilitate technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards; and V.c. Apply technology to increase productivity.