Integrating Technology in Your Classroom

Though I have never had to experience being a teacher without a classroom, I have joked that it wouldn’t be a problem for me to float. I love to take my class outside whenever the opportunity arises. Second to going outside, I also like to go to the computer lab. I know that there are classrooms out there with a full set of laptops and Wi-Fi available for everyone. However, I have never taught in one of those classrooms. So, for each unit, I reserve days in the computer lab so my pupils can do a research project, interactive animation, or a WebQuest. While there are many positive things gained from leaving the classroom, some other problems can occur. For example, some kids think that classroom rules don’t apply when they leave regular classroom. I approach this problem the same way I approach outdoor work. I prepare my pupils and establish clear guidelines before we leave our room. 

Establish Ground Rules

At the beginning of the year, along with lab safety, the scientific method, and outdoor work requirements, I explain the behavior expected in the computer lab. My rules include only visiting sites and programs that are required for the project. If a student wanders, I give him/her a warning. The next time they wander, they lose computer privileges and must do a formal report on the subject using their textbook. After one or two learners stray (and receive the consequences), the rest usually get the picture. For projects that require creativity, I suggest that you give learners a timeline or checklist. This way, they will be sure to get the content completed before they have creative fun. Additionally, I sometimes limit the amount of time that they can spend on activities, such as searching for sounds or music. I also make sure that my project requirements don’t contradict my school’s acceptable Internet usage policy.

The Computer Project

On the first day of a computer project, I remind students of my expectations and explain the goals and requirements of the project before we go the lab. I give the each learner a handout that explains the requirements, and I answer any initial questions. Once in the lab, I assign seats if I think it’s necessary, and I review the assignment once more. If you have a projection screen available, try demonstrating the instructions for the class. I move around the room occasionally, but my preferred place to stand is a place where I can view all of the monitors at once. I give assignments that I have done myself and that use familiar software. I also have stretched my abilities by attending staff development courses in technology.

Computer Management Software

If you are fortunate enough to have computer management software in your computer lab, managing student behavior and questions is a breeze. From the teacher computer, a small view of each individual's computer is visible. You can freeze or blackout their computer screens to make an announcement or to correct behavior. You can also take control of a student computer to get him/her back on task or give help. The software will also allow you to broadcast your screen to each student computer to give further instructions. Vision, SMART Sync, InterCLASS, and UserMonitor are some of the software options available. If you don’t have it available in your school, purchasing the software with grant money would be a great investment. You can also try some of the computer lessons below to help your students integrate technology into their studies.

Computer Technology Lesson Plans:

Creating a PowerPoint Presentation from Scratch 

Your class can create an eight-slide PowerPoint presentation from scratch without using the AutoContent Wizard. They create the presentation for an upcoming school event.

Biology Paired PowerPoint Presentations 

Students incorporate technology by creating a Microsoft PowerPoint. They experiment with various animation techniques and slide formats, so that they become familiar with the program. Additionally, they will gather research information on topics using the Internet.

Projectile Motion 

Your class is introduced to projectile motion in two dimensions and they discover how to manipulate an Excel worksheet to determine the angle that gives maximum range. Pupils can also use Excel to compare and contrast maximum height range from different angles.