Computers for all

Well, ready or no,t here they are!! Each student on our campus will be getting a Dell Duo Wednesday. I am Tracy and teach 6 th grade math and science. I found this website when searching for tutorials on Web 2.0. I have to admit, I didn't even realize there was a 2.0 and now I need to be ready for my students and their computers.

So...the question is--What should we do with them on day 1 in math and science. I want to set the tone right away and have the students know that these are not just for playing games. I also am willing to teach them some basic 2.0 skills (that's all I know at the moment) since they don't have a tech class.

I realllly want to do this right and open up their worlds to all that is available to them.We are so excited we're hovering above our chairs. Any comments, suggestions, insights would be most appreciated.

Tracy

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Permalink Reply by Leah Noreiga on March 19, 2012 at 6:30pm

what level are your kids? Are they beginners, intermediate, advanced? Do you have to teach them basic computer skills.

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Permalink Reply by Tracy Bierstedt on March 19, 2012 at 8:28pm

I would say intermediate.

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Permalink Reply by Aima Qam on March 20, 2012 at 6:50am

As you want to 'set tone' so give them introduction of digital citizenship and responsibility. Introduce and explain the significance of nine elements. It is important to mind them before entering in this fluid world.

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Permalink Reply by Stacey Bell on March 20, 2012 at 8:08am

I would definitely teach them some basic computer skills. While most of the students will be familiar with computers, you will have some that are not. I say start at the bottom and work your way up. Definitely set the tone and have some simple rules for using the new technology. I would throw in a game too, so they see that math and science can be fun. Good Luck!

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Permalink Reply by Patty Lewis on March 20, 2012 at 11:13am

Walk them through the basics: where things are located, how to find things, digital citizenship, etc.. Keep it simple but fun just to get started.

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Permalink Reply by Thomas Nixon on March 20, 2012 at 7:35pm

Introducing a project that students will be working on over a long period of time may be a good way to get them going on the computers. Using Excel in the project is an example of one way students could put the computers to use.

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Permalink Reply by Chris on March 20, 2012 at 9:44pm

Hi Tracy,

I'm not sure if this is really what you are looking for, but when I start using our school's laptops with my sixth-graders, I always begin by explaining where the computers came from and how they were purchased. In our district funds come from a local levy. It's amazing. When students hear that people have chosen to tax themselves (even people without kids) to help them get a better education, the respect and seriousness students take toward the computers increases dramatically. Suddenly, the computers are no longer toys, but learning tools, and the kids feel a responsibility to the people who have shown faith in (and provided money for) them. The kids realize that if others take their education so seriously, then they should too. I think you have an amazing opportunity, Tracy. Good luck!