Managing Technology

Managing Technology

The "Do's" and "Dont's"

There are many “dos” and “don’ts” when it comes to technology. A good time to go over these would be before devices arrive and during your technology procedures talk. Some “dos” I like to go over are always have your device charged and ready to go, handle your device with care, and stay on the assigned app or website. My “don’ts” include don’t let others use your device, don’t delete school related apps from your device, and don’t download inappropriate things.

Technology Helper

Last, but certainly not least, assign a technology helper! Not only does this give students a sense of responsibility, but it also ensures that devices are being taken care of. A few things I like for my technology helper to do is check iPad batteries and plug them in if needed. I also like for them to pass out iPads when students forget to put them in their backpacks.

Technology Procedures

Teaching students “dos” and “don’ts” and technology procedures before devices arrive is very vital when it comes to managing technology in the classroom. It’s important to set those expectations at the beginning of the school year, so there is no question on what is okay and what isn’t. This year all students are able to take iPads home. This is something new for K-2, so I knew that I needed to have strong procedures put in place. Every morning when students come in, the first thing they need to do is put their device at their designated iPad station. Their iPad should be fully charged from the night before and if not, they are required to charge them in the classroom. We use our devices all throughout the day. When we aren’t using them, they’re to be put back at their iPad station. When it’s time to go home, iPads and chargers are put in their backpacks and to be returned the next day. Another procedure I have in place is when walking in the hallway with our devices, students must “bear hug” them. This ensures that devices get to their destination safely.

Apple Classroom

Apple Classroom is a SUPER helpful app when it comes to managing technology in the classroom. It also holds students accountable to stay on the assigned app or website. Apple Classroom allows teachers to not only see what students are doing on their devices, but it also gives them access to lock them as well. Apple Classroom is very easy to setup but it’s also very easy for students to disconnect. This is an issue that I have ran into many times in the classroom, especially with my younger students. This is why it’s important to teach technology “dos” and “don’ts”.

Lead by Example

As teachers, if we expect students to be digitally responsible, it’s important that we practice what we preach. This means to stay off of cell phones, social media, and other non-school related apps when students are around. We also need to aware of what we post on our personal social media accounts. Before you post ask yourself, “would this be appropriate for parents, their students, and admin to see?”. As educators it’s important to be cautious of the digital footprint that we are leaving behind.