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With two to four computers with Internet access
in your classroom there is a wealth of learning opportunities you can allow
your students to experience within this type of computing environment. Read
below for a description of the different types of classroom management
scenarios and instructional methods that you can employ.
Organizing students into effective cooperative
groups can maximize the learning opportunities in a min-lab classroom. Consider
computer skill and specific assignment when pairing students and allow changing
partnerships according to individual needs. The use of "trained
experts" among class members is very helpful. Use computer buddies to
introduce new computer skills. Trained parent and community volunteers can
provide assistance with more involved projects.
Prior to Activity:
- Bookmark sites or create hot lists
- Load any software or plug ins
-
Create two folders on the
computer's desktop, one for completed projects and one for work in
progress. Have a checklist available so that, after each session, students
can indicate whether project is complete or additional time is needed.
-
When planning the furniture
setup for groups consider comfortable spacing around the computer and the
flow of traffic as students move from one center to another.
- Introduce all station and activities to students
- Review acceptable use policies and procedures
-
Schedule students computer
time: take the total number of students and divide by the number of students
in each team.
- Assign students to teams (consider mixed ability groups)
-
Try to keep group size under
five to allow every student to be involved and engaged.
- A clipboard for the recorder is helpful.
- Post computer use schedule as a spreadsheet.
During the activity:
- Monitor students
-
Students should only bring
those items that they need for class. Once students begin moving from
center to center they should bring only those items that they need for the
lesson.
- Provide each group with a process rubric so they can check off each item as it is completed.
- Use an overhead or easily visible timer so students can self-monitor their use of time effectively
- Encourage problem solving
-
Give groups time to share
what they learned and helpful tips. Peer critiquing of computer projects
is a key
- Have a list of "Things to Do" if students finish early at a station.
- Allow ample time to move between stations
Intel: Managing Computer Use
http://www.intel.com/education/newtotech/managing.htm
Tip Sheet: Strategies for Managing Students on One Computer or a Limited Number of Computers
http://www.lburkhart.com/elem/tip4.htm
The WIRED Classroom: Creating Technology Enhanced Student-Centered Learning Environments
http://www.fno.org/mar98/flotilla.html#anchor276463
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