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Classroom Management in the Computer Lab
I'm taking my students to the computer lab. Now What Do I Do?

Taking 25 or 30 students to a computer lab for the first time can be a scary event for a teacher. Here are some tips that may help you through the first few times:

  • Test the equipment the day before to be sure there are no technical problems. Use a pre-chosen, tested lesson plan like those on the C-SPAN and Power to Learn web sites as the centerpiece of the learning experience in the lab.
  • Discuss the lesson before you get to the lab so students will know what to expect. Doing this the day before helps maximize the time on task in the lab.
  • If the lab has a projection device, use it to demonstrate what you expect the students to do. Practice beforehand.
  • Post lab rules, computer commands or directions on the blackboard or wall before class. Encourage students to refer to them while in the lab.
  • Think about how long the lesson will take in relation to the period of time students will be in the lab. Provide activities for students who finish early.
  • Assign one or two strong students as computer assistants for the day to help students who may need assistance.
  • Design projects in small parts so that the parts can be completed in the allotted time and so that the directions do not get too complicated.
  • Divide the class into teams. Each team can do part of a complicated project and serve as "resident experts" for the other teams.
  • Ask for help from a colleague if you need it. Sometimes a friendly face in the lab helps you get through a new experience.
  • Plan. Plan. Plan. Then relax.

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