Ways to Manage Laptop Use in the Classroom

Laptop computer management in the classroom

With the introduction of laptop computers to high schools, there are a number of ways to manage laptop use in the classroom.

Include laptop directives on the course outline

Advise students immediately, as to whether laptop computers are compulsory for the class, as there may be students who need to purchase them. Laptop computers may be appropriate for use in a classroom, depending upon the kind of class it is, so the course outline should include specific directives and information about their usage. For example, while they may be appropriate for a creative writing class, they may not be appropriate for a course when there are other activities, like a woodworking class where machinery is used or a science class, in which there are experiments.

Availability of Internet connections or the necessity for batteries:

The course outline should specify whether Internet connections will be available for each laptop computer or if the students are expected to operate their laptop computers on batteries. The students should be advised to take extra batteries to each class. Purchasing a battery charger may be a good investment.

When only the teacher, tutor or professor has a laptop computer:

If the teacher is the only one who has a laptop computer, the appropriate files may be projected onto a wall. This may eliminate the need for students to have laptop computers. Every student may not be able to afford to purchase one, as there is cost involved. Second hand laptop computers may be available.

Specific classroom instructions:

Advise the students when they will be able to use their laptop computers in class. For example, an outline may be used by the teacher, but it is not necessary for the students to use their laptops, when there is a hard copy of the outline handed out. It may be preferable for them to listen instead, particularly if there is an important lecture. Classroom laptop computer etiquette is important.

For those students who have desktop computers at home:

While many students do not have laptop computers, they may have access to desk top computers, at home. If so, they may be able to access web site addresses at a later time. Make certain that the specific addresses (URLs) are included in handouts distributed to the students. You may be able to post these on a blackboard or bulletin board.

Responsibility for laptop computers:

Laptop computers can be damaged easily and are expensive to replace or to repair. Make certain that students understand that when they bring laptop computers to a class, they bear the responsibility for them, as well as for damages or repairs. It may be possible to obtain laptop computer insurance coverage on home insurance policies.

Classroom expectations and co-operation:

Using laptops in class, requires co-operation on the part of the teacher, as well as the students. The teacher may have to monitor students using laptop computers. It may not always be easy keep a class working together, when the students do not co-operate or are not able to work with the computers properly.

Students may be inclined to surf the Internet, rather than participate in the class, which can cause disruptions. Others may not know how to use the computer properly or how to type very well. If there are slow learners, they may have to be taught separately or obtain assistance from someone in the class.

Downloading other devices:

The usage of other devices like printers and scanners is part of a classroom project. Make certain that students are aware of how to use these properly. They may need to download files, different programs or multimedia devices from the computer, at times.

Take advantage of student mentors:

If you have a class with a number of students who excel in computer skills, you may have them mentor other students. If possible, have students work together in groups, but at their own pace.

Assignments and tests:

When administering assignments and tests, make certain that each student has access to the appropriate files, as some students may have difficulty finding the files or opening them, depending on the laptop computer that they are using. If possible, have the assignments completed in the classroom or make other arrangements, as necessary. Make certain that any tests handed in, have proper identification, by name and student number.

Technical support:

Advise the students where they can obtain technical support or training. Most students will know where to go for help, but if there is technical support available at the school, it can save time and money for the students.

Use appropriate websites and blogs:

Use appropriate websites for your class and additional sites for advances learners. When students have finished their assignments or tests, have them work on blogs that may be used at a later date. That way all of the class will be working on the same kind of a project, rather than waiting for the others or working on something that is not appropriate for the class.

These are a few ways that a teacher can manage laptop use in the classroom, but there are other ways, too. Be open to suggestions.