Navigating the Classroom Technology Minefield

Facilitator: Jason Bengs @jasonbengs)

http://bit.ly/TCD-ClassTech

With the addition of new technology in the classroom come obstacles and pitfalls teachers must navigate through in order to get the most out of the equipment. This session will share ideas for managing the devices successfully, developing digital citizenship and tips for keeping students engaged in the learning process.

History

What are some of the struggles teachers have had with students in the past?

Cutting class
Talking back
Passing Notes
Disrespect
Bringing inappropriate materials to school
Smoking/Drugs on Campus
Fighting
Not turning in work

Today

What are some of the issues facing teachers today?

Cutting class
Talking back
Texting
Disrespect
Viewing inappropriate materials at school
Smoking/Drugs on Campus
Fighting
Not turning in work

How do they compare?

Past

Cutting class
Talking back
Passing Notes
Disrespect
Bringing inappropriate materials to school
Smoking/Drugs on Campus
Fighting
Not turning in work

Present

Cutting class
Talking back
Texting/Chatting
Disrespect
Viewing inappropriate materials at school
Smoking/Drugs on Campus
Fighting
Not turning in work

So what has changed?

Teachers face the same issues they have faced from the very beginning.

Students are still going to test their boundaries to see what they can get away with.

The biggest difference educators face today is the tools students use to test their boundaries.

In the past it was pencil, paper and magazines.

Today it is their phone, tablet or computer.

Goals

Address some specific issues or distractions a technology rich classroom may face
Look at the device vs. behavior debate
Come up with some techniques to help mitigate the issues teachers face with classroom technology.

What are the biggest roadblocks you face with technology in the classroom?

Students watching videos when they shouldn't be?

Sending messages/texting in class?

Going to sites they shouldn't be visiting?

If students are taught the dangers of consuming alcohol and smoking, so too should they be taught the realities of technology addiction and how to successfully manage their tech use.

Tips for Managing Digital Distraction in Your Classroom

Give kids meaningful things to do on their devices.
Capitalize on tools that promote higher-order thinking and learning.
Look for platforms that encourage digital creation, online collaboration, communication beyond the classroom, and new perspectives for critical thinking.

Set appropriate boundaries for in-class device use.

Find the right middle ground for you and your students, and make these boundaries clear.
Consider the needs of your classroom as a whole, and differentiate boundaries for students with specific learning differences.