Handling Technical Issues that Disrupt your Lesson

Educators often rely on various digital tools and platforms to enhance the learning experience. However, technical issues sometimes arise unexpectedly, disrupting lessons and impacting student instruction. Addressing these challenges effectively is crucial for maintaining a productive learning environment. We’ll explore strategies for handling technical disruptions, from understanding common issues and quick troubleshooting tips to preparing in advance and implementing backup plans. By equipping teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, we can ensure that learning remains uninterrupted and dynamic, regardless of the technical hurdles that may arise.

Preparing for Technical Difficulties Before They Occur

Assessing Available Technology

Before the tech gremlins come out to play, it’s wise to take stock of what you have available. Conduct a tech inventory to identify what devices, software, and tools are in your classroom. Familiarizing yourself with the capabilities and limitations of your tech can make all the difference.

Creating an IT Support Contact List

Having a handy contact list of tech support personnel is a must-have. Include names, phone numbers, emails, and their specialties if they have them. A good IT support contact list can help you tackle tech issues with confidence instead of panic.

If you are in the same boat as many of us, that list consists mostly of your name. In that case, check out our guide for how to provide Tech Support as a Tech Teacher!

Training and Familiarization with Tools

Let’s face it: technology can be a little temperamental. Being well-informed about the tools you’re using can significantly help when issues arise. Schedule training sessions (or self-led YouTube marathon sessions) to get familiar with the technology. The more you know, the less likely you’ll find yourself staring blankly at a screen while students giggle and ask if you’ve tried turning it off and on again. Plus, you might even discover some nifty features you didn’t know existed!

Fixing Tech Issues Mid-Lesson

When a tech issue arises, use it as a teaching moment. Patience and level-headed problem solving is required of us all, and modeling them may be one of the most important lessons you can possibly teach. Consider Teaching Elementary Students how to Troubleshoot Common Technology Issues, and I even have a Basic Tech Troubleshooting Lesson to get you set up.

Basic Troubleshooting Tips for Common Technology Issues in the Classroom may also be a great refresher for you as you prepare to face those inevitable glitches.

Using Small Breaks Well

If you know your issue will be fixed in just a few minutes, but the class has to wait it out, consider making the most of your time. Take them outside or in the gym, do Keva planks or find another physically stimulating option by being familiar with how to Promote Wellness in Schools with Apps.

Pivot to the Backup Plan

Always have a back up paper or other offline activity ready in case of a technical emergency. Ideally this activity will be related to the unit you are teaching, but review activities are valuable as well.

Printables

CS Unplugged has a variety of free teaching material that teaches Computer Science through engaging games and puzzles that use cards, string, crayons and lots of running around. My shop is full of Printable Activities you can keep on hand as well!

STEM Activities

This guide to Creating Stations in the Tech Lab has several options that are available offline. Many STEM centers are offline too! What’s more, we have all the info you need to prep these kind of activities right here.

Books

Books are a great way to introduce or support any lesson. Tech-focused storybooks such as the ones we are recommending present computer science information in a more relatable, easy to understand way.

Build a personal library of tech themed books you can pull from. Start an Amazon Wish List for your classroom and post the link on your website. Teacher Appreciation Week and winter holidays are a great time to point people towards this wish list as well!

For recommendations, we have a Computer Basics Book List, Coding Book List, Digital Citizenship Grades K-5 Book List for you.

Check out my entire collection of Digital Book Companions for even more ideas.

Resources and Tools for Technical Support in Education

Essential Software and Hardware Recommendations

To prevent future mishaps, invest in reliable software and hardware that can withstand the test of time. Ensure your systems are updated, and if possible, check out educational tools specifically designed for seamless integration into your lessons. Remember, a little preparation can save you from panic-induced mid-lesson meltdowns!

Online Help Desks and Communities

Don’t navigate the tech jungle alone! There are a plethora of online help desks and educator communities ready and willing to assist you when technology gets tricky. Whether it’s forums, chat support, or troubleshooting guides, these resources can help you quickly resolve issues and get back on track. Looking for a Supportive Tech Teacher Community? Join My Facebook Group! You may just discover that many other teachers are riding the same tech rollercoaster!

Navigating technical issues in the classroom is an essential skill for educators in the modern age. By being proactive in preparation, employing effective communication strategies, and having backup plans in place, teachers can minimize disruptions and maintain a positive learning atmosphere. Embracing these practices not only enhances the educational experience but also empowers both educators and students to adapt and thrive in a technology-rich environment.