Class Computers

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2001 : October : 20

Class Computers
By Elaine

I know exactly what you mean because my during my first year, I allowed students who finished their work first on the computers for drill and practice programs (the only thing I had available at the time). In my incredibly
wise way of thinking, I thought I was cleverly motivating students to complete their work. However, they did rush through their work, and typically it was the same few students who were able to gain access.
Here's what worked for me. I set up a rotation chart that gave each student a scheduled day for being on a specific computer. This put a stop to the mad rush--chosen few syndrome.

After establishing a schedule, I followed it religiously. I learned (the hard way) that if I allowed an unscheduled student on a computer (for whatever good reason) then I'd set us all up for the mad rush--chosen few syndrome all over again.

Depending on the number of students you teach, you could schedule a one (or two) student(s) each day to a specific one of your two computers. I say to make specific computer assignments because if your rotation chart is detailed and specific, then you won't have any daily discussions (disagreements) about who is on which computer -- just makes life easier all around.