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Classroom Issues
 

There are several important classroom issues to consider with regard to computer use. Below will be some brief discussion about a few key points.

The One Computer Classroom
Several of the classrooms at the charter school have Internet access limited to one computer.  You can find some great articles that give practical ideas to handle this situation at this site, The One Computer Classroom.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Use a buddy system that pairs more computer saavy students with beginners.
• Have a management plan in place before starting a project (i.e. cards indicating who is on the computer, when and for how long).
• Create two desktop folders, one for completed work and one for work in progress.
• Provide a checklist for students each time they spend time on the computer so they can keep track of where they are in the project.
• Use templates whenever possible. Then students can rotate through an activity without loosing or altering the original.
• Emphasize preplanning to time so actual time on the computer is put to good use.
• When introducing a new computing skill, model frequently before expecting students to do it on their own.
• Use the L-TV hook-up when demonstrating these new skills.
• Enlist the help of volunteers as much as possible

There are several good books focusing on one computer classrooms. Of particular notice are those written by Tom Snyder . Also check out these searches from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Special Needs Students
Accomodating the needs and learning styles of today's students is made easier with the integration of technology. By encorporating a multimedia approach, teachers have the tools to allow all students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of exciting learning experiences.

Here are a few examples of how technology supports inclusion:

• The use of a laptop computer and speech recognition software enables the student with speech and motor impairments to work towards independence in writing.
• Multimedia writing projects that pair learning disabled students with non-disabled peers can tap unrealized potential of both populations.
• Deaf students can learn to translate American Sign Language to written English by integrating story telling, video taping and word processing.
• A portable braille devise with speech output can allow a high school student academic success.

 
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