Classroom Management in The One Computer Classroom
I have one computer in my classroom. What do I do with it?

Rethinking our more traditional approaches to classroom management sometimes facilitates using technology for instruction. You may want to consider new solutions in the physical placement of the computers, scheduling and time management when using technology for instruction, and the use of learning strategies to maximize student benefits.

Scheduling
The teaching day is a full one. How do I "fit in" the use of computers in my classroom? Set up a time management system so all students have a chance to work on the computer. Strategies that some teachers have found helpful:

• Set up teams of two students and create a schedule over the week that provides each team with computer time. Post the schedule so students will know when their time is and can move quietly to the computer station when it is their turn. The scheduled time can be as short as 20 minutes. Over a week, 20 students can have access to the computer in a 40-minute per day period.
• Look for computer activities that will replace more traditional approaches to presenting information. Some of the activities in the C-SPAN Campaign 2000 series address multiple learning standards or multiple concepts.
• Appoint a Tech Team of student helpers. Tech Team members are scheduled on a rotating basis for a day. If students working at the computer experience difficulty, a member of the Tech Team can get up and help without the teacher interrupting a class or small group lesson.
• Research has shown longer or flexible class periods are helpful for student projects that involve technology.

The Physical Environment
The physical placement of a computer in the classroom can sometimes help or impede the use of technology for instruction. Glare from windows or classroom lighting can create challenges and hinder the student's use of the computer. Some tips to consider on the physical placement of computers:

• Try slightly turning the monitor or moving the table on which the computer sits to resolve a problem with glare or lighting.
• Place the computer strategically in the classroom. If it is in front of the blackboard, students will be staring at it, instead of you, when you are teaching. Placement at the side or back of the room helps the technology to "blend."
• Consider placing it on or near your desk. Placement there allows you to work at the computer individually or with small groups of students.
• Take a critical look at your teaching space. Place the computer where several children have room to work. The space should also have a surface near the computer where children can write or take notes.

Strategies to Maximize the Benefits of Technology
Here are some strategies tp try that may maximize the benefits of using technology with your students:

• Have students work in pairs. Consider placing a stronger student and weaker student together. Students working together facilitate the sharing of information and discourse that helps to build understanding. Research has shown that the discourse that students engage in when working together can support learning and build understanding for both children involved in the discourse.
• Since we are preparing our students for the future, they need to learn to work as a team. Creating teams at the computer builds collaborative skills and gives children opportunities to articulate observations and make suggestions, two skills that are important in the work place of the 21st Century.
• To create the maximum impact on student learning, consider a selective focus on an individual concept or curriculum rather than an ambitious attempt to "cover" all curricula.
• Don't try too much too soon. Keep it simple.

Back to Classroom Management Tips