Devices In the Classroom

Now that the school year has begun, I'm starting to get quite a few emails regarding the use of class sets of devices (iPads and Chromebooks) in the classroom. How do I set up routines with the devices? Where do I start with the apps? How can my students use Chromebooks in class? What should I do about digital citizenship? There are tons of questions that teachers ask regarding technology, especially if this is the first time that they've used devices in the classroom.

Last year, I wrote a BLOG post called "Back to School Device Boot Camp" where I outlined some  best practices for introducing students to devices in the classroom. Creating a "Device Boot Camp" for your students is a fun way to familiarize them with the device, while also "laying down the law" of what is expected of them with regards to technology. Here is an example of a device boot camp presentation that I've used with students in the past. Think about the specific rules (big and small) that you have and also the consequences for breaking those rules. Some of the rules I like to enforce with iPads are no selfies or videos (unless told to do so), consistent wallpaper/backgrounds, no app folders (I hate those), and only download certain apps.

As far as apps to start with ... I always go Google! As a Google district, all of our students have school Google accounts. Begin by having them log in to those accounts with their ID number and birth date (ddmmyyyy). Show them their Google Drive and have them create a folder for this school year. Create a Google Classroom for your students to join. Post a fun activity in the classroom for students to complete, and show them how to turn in an assignment.

Is Google a little too much for your K-2 students? Start with Seesaw!! Create a teacher account, add your students, them have them login with the QR code. Post a fun "getting to know you activity" and have students respond. Can't think of an activity? Don't worry, Seesaw has already created activities for you to use.

Don't be afraid to try things out with your devices! If something is not working for you or your students, then change it. Technology is a tool for learning, so make it work for you. Need ideas about how to do that? Sign up for EdTech support, and I would love to help you with your devices.

How do you introduce devices in your classroom? Leave a comment below, sharing your ideas.

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