One of teachers biggest concerns when it comes to allowing the use of mobile devices in the classroom is how will I manage my classroom with all of this technology? How will I keep my class focused and on task? These are some of the strategies that I've shared with teachers to put them at ease and put them in control when students bring their own devices to class.
Communicate- Post signs for how, when, and where devices will be used so students know your expectations. In addition, communicate your plan to parents and make sure they are supportive and know how you plan to use the devices for learning purposes.
Locate- Have a designated location for devices when they are not in use. One of the teachers in our district uses the calculator pockets to hold devices when they are not in use. Some other teachers just have them placed face down at the corner of the desk. Wherever you choose just make sure you inform students.
Separate- Very rarely, will students need their device the entire class period. So it will be helpful to chunk activities so that there are distinct start and end times. For example, tell students, "we will be doing some research for 10 minutes and then we will have a discussion". Use a timer if necessary.
Create- Mobile devices are not only helpful for students to search, find, and consume information they are also great for providing students to create content. Give students the opportunity to create products like paper-slide videos or instructional tutorials, visual notes, and more to “show what they know”.
Circulate -Mobile devices in a classroom means you must be a mobile teacher. Your close proximity to students helps to minimize any off-task behavior and gives students quick access to you in the even that they have questions.
Communicate- Post signs for how, when, and where devices will be used so students know your expectations. In addition, communicate your plan to parents and make sure they are supportive and know how you plan to use the devices for learning purposes.
Locate- Have a designated location for devices when they are not in use. One of the teachers in our district uses the calculator pockets to hold devices when they are not in use. Some other teachers just have them placed face down at the corner of the desk. Wherever you choose just make sure you inform students.
Separate- Very rarely, will students need their device the entire class period. So it will be helpful to chunk activities so that there are distinct start and end times. For example, tell students, "we will be doing some research for 10 minutes and then we will have a discussion". Use a timer if necessary.
Create- Mobile devices are not only helpful for students to search, find, and consume information they are also great for providing students to create content. Give students the opportunity to create products like paper-slide videos or instructional tutorials, visual notes, and more to “show what they know”.
Circulate -Mobile devices in a classroom means you must be a mobile teacher. Your close proximity to students helps to minimize any off-task behavior and gives students quick access to you in the even that they have questions.