Classroom+Management+Round+Table+Discussion

=1:1 Classroom Management Round Table Discussion=

Controlled, Creative, Chaos? * What does a well-__managed__ classroom look like? Desks in a row isn't necessarily an indicator of good management. Or learning.
Topics to consider:

1. Classroom arrangement (taking into account power outlets- age of computing devices- batteries)

Arrange furniture in clusters for collaborative work - alas, that may be an //ideal// given the age and design of the infrastructure. What about electrical power? May require redesign or expansion of electrical feeds/circuits. Fabricate tables on wheels (lockable wheels) for portable power.

2. Teacher/Facilitator positioning and activity

Nothing works better than MANAGEMENT BY WALKING AROUND. Guide students on where to sit so that they can see the front of the room or the area where presentations are being conducted. Direct teaching continues, but should be married to multiple activities for students to engage in, collectively and separately.

3. Policy for computer use (CAUP- Classroom Acceptable Use Policies)- Different for Disciplines

The school AUP should be an EVOLVING document. Usually contains broad or general language. A "CAUP" should be more detailed and pertinent to the classroom and subject. Take time to have "student voice" in the creation of classroom policies to gain student buy-in. Define what you expect students to do with their devices upon entering the classroom. Establish all rules UP FRONT, not on the day you pass the devices out to students. If the plan is to use laptops, then have "bell ringer" exercise on the internet for students to do. When I need my students attention, what do I do? Yell and wave arms? Have students turn there laptops around (rather than closing lids); closing lids may invite power and reconnect issues.

4. Administrators/ITFs: Those that are having trouble with classroom management currently (without 1:1) are now going to be exponentially challenged.

Principals! Pay attention! If classroom mgmt is an issue for a teacher, infusing 1:1 technology into that classroom may multiply those issues __exponentially__. Prof. Development is needed prior to any implementation. Turning around the laptop is best practice for 90% of mgmt issues.

5. What does engagement look like in a 1:1 environment with middle school or high school students?

"Teacher walking around or standing in back of room saying, "Let me know if you need me for anything." Meanwhile, students are teaching each other.

6. Discipline (Would you take away a students pencil? paper?)

Respect is Respect regardless whether it is misapplied using technology or ugly words or nasty pictures in the margin of a textbook. Try to apply discipline back to Student Conduct rules.

7. Classroom management software