04+One+Computer+Classrooms

= = **__ Activity 4b __** **__ Group Members: __**** Harriette Da Silva, Mona Green and Carlton Edwards **

**__ One Computer Classroom __** In many developing countries it is not always possible to supply each student with a computer, however as teachers try to ensure that their students have access to the technology many have opted for a one computer classroom. With the single classroom computer teachers have an effective presentation tool. They can use it as a tool for the generation or production of student work, as a cooperative learning tool, and as an in-class information resource. While many teachers are very familiar with how the computer can be used to present audio/visual information to an entire class, other uses require a bit more investigation. For example, in order for a single computer to be used by students to create work, the teacher will need to organize the class activity so that small groups of students can use the computer while other groups of students work on non-computer components of the activity. Organizing a lesson or unit in this fashion requires forethought and planning; and this can be quite daunting in a first attempt. Nevertheless, with practice most teachers find that as they use the computer in the classroom, students are more motivated to participate in classroom activities. Additionally, there is an improvement in the interaction with the content and more cooperative learning takes place among students.
 * __ CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND PROCEDURES THAT WOULD FACILITATE EFFECTIVE LEARNING IN A ONE COMPUTER CLASSROOM __**
 * Project the image from the computer screen onto a larger screen that the entire class can see and participate.
 * Joan Peebles (in Chaika, 2011), a technology coordinator in Madison, Wisconsin, suggested that the lone computer be placed in an easily accessible and easily supervised place. Also the computer should be kept away from direct sunlight, water, magnets, and chalk dust.
 * Another strategy is to create "stations" or multiple activities, using the computer as only one of the tools necessary to complete assignments. Students can conduct research not only on the Internet but as the computer is being used by one student the others would use bound encyclopedias, magazines and books to do the same assignment manually. They would then rotate the computer use. This can be done every 15 to 20 minutes.
 * Post computer rights and responsibilities, guidelines for help and expected behavior near computer station.

Heller (in Chaika, 2011) states that in a one-computer classroom, it is imperative to plan carefully and be extremely organized. The teacher needs to start with a simple activity and ensure that each child has a chance to use the computer. She further states that it is imperative that each child knows exactly what to do. If writing, students complete a rough draft in their journals first. The teacher should also provide step-by-step instructions and samples of the work to be completed therefore each student is prepared to use the computer. In order to effectively manage the one computer classroom, the teacher needs to implement the following measures. Teach students new software by assigning small activities that use just a few of the tools. Gradually increase their knowledge this way. The teacher should plan carefully for the time spent on the computer each week. Teach kids as much as possible before allowing them to use the computer so that the time spent there is as efficient as possible. Show students the activity as a whole class demonstration using the computer and TV before sending them to work alone at the computer. Design projects to be completed in small parts, so that directions do not become too complex. Have instructions clearly spelled out and in small chunks. Create templates for projects so that independent work can occur. If your class can only get limited access to the computer lab, the computer can be used to demonstrate what they are doing before hand. This will allow you to use your lab time more effeciently.
 * __Practical measures for effectively managing the one computer classroom. __**
 * Plan Ahead **

If the computer is used as a station, a strategy for moving students through that station is a necessity. The following are some possible traffic strategies: __Post a schedule __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">. Allow a set amount of time for each student at the computer station. Students are responsible for getting to the station at the appointed time. __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Draw Popsicle sticks __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">. Write each student's name on a Popsicle stick. Place the can of Popsicle sticks at the computer station. Draw a stick at the start of the day. The person whose name is on the stick will start the day at the station. That student will draw a stick to determine who goes next. __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Establish colour-coded groups __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">. Divide the class into five groups. Write the names of each group on a different sheet of colored paper, and post the papers by the computer station. The students in each group will spend time at the computer on a given day (for example, the students in the red group will have computer time on Mondays). The students within a group will go to the computer in assigned or random order.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Rotate Students through Classroom Computers **


 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Pair Kids at the Computer **
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Use the one computer as a station with pairs/groups of kids. This works well if you are doing projects or problem-based learning. Students work on the project, and the computer is one of many activities to solve the problem or do the project.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Pair students at the computer. Have one use the mouse and the other use the keyboard. The next time they use the computer they switch roles.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Have them switch who uses the computer by dividing up the tasks.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">A small team of kids can have a corresponding team that works with them, with each team sharing with the other what they learned while the other was otherwise occupied either at the computer or with conventional class work.


 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Create Sharing of a Limited Resource **
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Use the computer for whole class demonstration or as a lecture supplement. You'll need a projection device such as an LCD panel for this.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Scheduling **
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Think about how you schedule time on the computers. Remember equal opportunity. If you let the students who finish work first go to the computer, the students who are kinesthetic learners and need to be on the computer don't get the chance.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Put a timer and a student roster next to the computer. Teach the students how to set the timer for 15 minutes and to tap the next person on the shoulder when they are done.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Computer Assistants __**
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Have a different student each week who serves as Computer Assistant or Tech Buddy. If students have a question, they are to go to the Computer Assistant for help. If the Assistant doesn't know, then they can ask the teacher.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Use peer teaching. Each week have a different student in charge of the computer. They should have learned whatever program is used that week.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Instructional technologist Karen Cole offers additional suggestions, such as having a student check the weather forecast at weather.com and e-mail it to the school principal, who can announce it before school ends so everyone will know how to dress the next day. <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Publishing student writing encourages the reluctant writer, strengthens kids' self-confidence, rewards interest, and promotes a positive attitude toward literature.
 * __<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">ACTIVITIES FOR A ONE-COMPUTER CLASSROOM __**
 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Encourage Student Writing **

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">It is imperative that teachers do not use the computer as a sign of reward or punishment. They must ensure that everyone gets a chance to use the computer since this is part of the students’ education. The teacher should ensure that the computer is placed in a location where it can be monitored appropriately in order to give assistance to the students if needed and to ensure that they do not access unfavourable sites.

__** Advantages and disadvantages of a one computer classroom. **__

Having one computer in a classroom has its advantages and disadvantages. From time to time pupils may want to work alone or group activities may be necessary from time to time. The table below outlines some advantages and disadvantages of having one computer in a classroom.


 * __** Group Size **__

One student || **__ Advantages __**

* Work at own pace, not dependent on each other. || __**Disadvantages**__ * Requires classroom computer access time (every individual will need time on the computer)
 * Takes long to complete an assignment.
 * Student may find it difficult working on an assignment alone.
 * Doesn't promote cooperative learning and problem solving. ||
 * Two of three students || * Learn from each other.
 * Share projects responsibility.
 * Supports real life learning.
 * Cooperative and problem solving skills are developed.
 * Computer access time is cut in half so students learn to manage their time to achieve maximum results. || * The teacher needs to ensure that students engage in discussion and have a chance to speak because one student may want to dominate. ||
 * Four || * Learn from each other.
 * Share responsibilities.
 * Supports real- life world learning.
 * Learning from different perspectives, and co-operative skills increases.
 * Computer access time increases to facilitate group activities.
 * Projects can be completed in less time. || * One or two students may dominate the discussions or activities.
 * It may be difficult to share computer.
 * Requires greater interpersonal skills which may be a challenge for some students. ||

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Sources: [] [] [] <span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; font-size: 14px;">[1] []