3 Tips for the First Week in Technology
The first week in the technology lab is so important. Get started on the right track with these 3 tips:
Tip #1: Logins
Your students are going to need to log in to the computer. While it may be tempting to hold of on having them log in the first week, you shouldn’t! This procedure is the most important one in your classroom, so they need the consistency from day one.
I always print out my class lists with student log in information because I teach my students how to look up their number without my help. I put a folder on the back counter with all of the lists, separated by day of the week that they come to the lab. Each sheet has the teacher’s name at the top and then the list of student names and usernames (no passwords). I encourage students to memorize their usernames and passwords, but some just never get it. By giving them the option to look up their username every week, it takes the stress out of it, and they don’t have to bother me to get it.
You at least will need the list in digital format for the first week so that you can look up the login information for the students who do not remember theirs. Since classes change so much in the beginning of the year, I could see the benefit of holding off printing them until things are more settled.
Tip #2: Rules
I’m sure you thought long and hard about what your computer lab rules should be. The first day, your students come in, sit down, and you go over the rules. Then what?
My advice to you is to have your students DO something with the class rules. For example, my older students (grades 4 and 5) make a poster using MS Word or PowerPoint on the first day. They are allowed to play with the fonts, clip art, and borders as long as their finished product has the class rules.By the way, this makes a great display to show off in the hallway! With my younger students, they draw a picture of the most important rule. 2nd and 3rd graders caption theirs, but K and 1 just draw out a picture representation of which rule they feel is most important. I love to use the ABCYa! Paint tool for this, but you could certainly use a different program or even do it on paper.
Tip #3: Early Finishers
You’ve planned this amazing first day lesson. Your students are logged in to their accounts and using digital tools! Then, 2-3 kids raise their hand to say they are done, and there are still 15 minutes left before the session ends.
Always have a firm plan for early finishers. I have a page set up on my class website with early finisher activities- websites with learning games. I also have a classroom library with great kids books related to technology themes. I make sure my students know from day one that these are their only two options. No “helping” friends, which is really just a distraction in the computer lab. No bothering me, either. Is that terrible? I like a peaceful classroom where everyone is working hard and knows what to do.
So, now you have three solid tips for starting the year on the right track with your technology students. These are things you can have prepared before the students even start. Did I forget anything crucial? Let me know in the comments.
Looking for some ready-made first week activities? Click here to go to my curriculum website. You can find the free activities on the Samples dropdown menu.
The first week of technology classes is all about establishing routines, introducing students to the computer lab, and setting expectations for the rest of the year. As a computer lab teacher, you will see each class of students once during this week, teaching the same lessons repeatedly to different groups. Here’s how to make the first week smooth, organized, and energizing.
Daily Lesson Plan Overview
Grades K-1: Introduction to the Computer Lab
- Focus: Familiarization with the lab, basic rules, and introductory computer skills.
- Activities: Lab tour, safety rules discussion, basic mouse and keyboard practice, and an engaging interactive activity.
Grades 2-3: Getting Started with Technology
- Focus: Lab procedures, basic computer skills refresher, and introduction to digital citizenship.
- Activities: Overview of lab procedures, rules and expectations, logging in, mouse and keyboard practice, and a basic digital citizenship discussion.
Grades 4-5: Setting Up for Success
- Focus: Advanced computer skills, lab procedures, and in-depth digital citizenship.
- Activities: Introduction to file management, basic software overview, digital citizenship and online safety, and independent practice.
Bonus Daily Tips for Staying Organized and Energized
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Materials and Resources: Have all materials ready at the start of each day. This includes handouts, login information, visual aids, and any interactive games or videos you’ll be using.
- Technology Check: Each morning, test all equipment to ensure computers, projectors, and any interactive tools are functioning correctly. This will help avoid technical difficulties that can disrupt the flow of your lessons.
- Use a Consistent Routine
- Class Start and End: Begin and end each class the same way. For example, start with a welcome and a quick review of rules, and end with a recap and a preview of what’s to come next time. This consistency helps students know what to expect and makes transitions smoother.
- Transitions: Plan smooth transitions between activities. Use verbal cues or a timer to keep things moving and maintain the class’s momentum.
- Stay Energized Throughout the Day
- Take Breaks: Schedule short breaks for yourself between classes. Use this time to stretch, grab a snack or water, and reset for the next group. Even a few minutes can help you stay refreshed.
- Stay Positive: Teaching the same lesson repeatedly can be monotonous. Keep your energy up by focusing on the unique dynamics of each class and celebrating small wins, like when a student masters a new skill.
- Keep Track of Progress and Adjustments
- Notes on Each Class: After each class, jot down quick notes about what went well and what could be improved. Note any particular challenges or successes to adjust your approach for the next group.
- Flexibility: Be prepared to make small adjustments to your lessons as needed. If a particular activity is taking longer than expected or isn’t resonating with students, tweak your plan for the next class.
- Organize Your Space
- Classroom Setup: Keep your lab organized by ensuring that all equipment is in its designated place and that students are aware of how to properly store and handle materials.
- Student Supplies: Have a system for distributing and collecting any student supplies, like headphones or handouts. This helps save time and keeps the lab orderly.
- Stay Engaged with Students
- Get to Know Your Students: Learn names quickly and try to engage with each student, even briefly. This helps build rapport and makes students feel valued and comfortable in the lab.
- Encourage Participation: Foster an inclusive environment where all students feel comfortable participating. Ask open-ended questions and encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences.
- Reflect and Reenergize at the End of the Day
- End-of-Day Reflection: Take a few minutes at the end of each day to reflect on how things went. What were the highlights? What could be improved? This reflection can inform your teaching for the rest of the week.
- Prepare for Tomorrow: Organize materials for the next day and review your plan to ensure everything is in place. This will make your mornings smoother and reduce last-minute stress.
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Practice Self-Care
- Healthy Habits: Ensure you are taking care of yourself by eating nutritious meals, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Your energy levels will impact your teaching.
- Mindfulness: Consider incorporating a mindfulness practice, even just a few deep breaths between classes, to help you stay centered and calm.
By organizing your week effectively and maintaining your energy, you’ll set a positive tone for your technology classes and help your students feel excited and prepared for the year ahead. Remember, the first week is all about building relationships, establishing routines, and creating a fun and engaging learning environment.
