Computer usage - time allotments

[jsfowler]

Lately I have been frustrated with trying to get computer time for my students. We are researching for our science fair and typing their reports. I am struggling to get any time in the computer lab and mobile labs!!

In Kentucky, all 7th graders must complete a writing portfolio,so....all the 7th grade language arts teachers are tying up the computers.

I had the lab scheduled today and from the minute I walked into the building they have bombarded me, begging to have the lab today. My kids need it too!!! One of them even went to the principal and tried ot argue that what they were doing was mandatory and mine was extra-curricular. They have tyed up the lab all year and it is my turn.

We have mobile labs but half the time the language arts teachers do not plug them in to charge...so no one can use them.

I wish our principals would restrict computer lab time. Seriously, one teacher wrote her name in the schedule book for three weeks straight all day long!!! This same person is signed up for at least 2 days a week, every week of school.

How does your school manage computer lab time? Do you have restrictions?

[Chef Dave]

We have two labs that are supplemented by 10 computer stations in the library and two large carts. Each cart has a classroom set of wireless laptops and a printer.

Computers at our school are available on a first come, first served sign up basis. As long as you plan in advance, there is generally not a problem at our school. Problems typically occur when instructors forget to reserve computer time or unexpectedly decide to deviate from their lesson plans.

I also have three computers, two printers, and a scanner in my office.

[MsCoffeeLover]

I feel your pain, jsfowler. We have some computerized testing at least three times a year. That is tied up every day for at least a month.

We can book library time, but every time I call, it seems to be booked. The other science teacher manages to get it, but I don't know how. He moves quickly.

I know we have the one lab with only so many computers. We don't have any mobile labs. We also have learning labs and keyboarding classes, so kids get to use the computers and learn about computers, but there aren't enough of them for research.

My writing and researching has to come from other sources.

[Flipp]

We're a small k-8, and I'm the Jr. High computer teacher. I see 6, 7 and 8 just one hour a week. There are a few open slots, and they tend to stay open because the elementary classes are also on a regular schedule.
It is frustrating, not enough resources to go around.
We also use AlphaSmarts, which are great but are just word processors.
Good luck, and don't bend! Inquiry science is a national standard, so no one can say the Science Fair is extra-curriculatory.
If those mobile labs aren't used, I'd try to steal them the day before. Plug them in so they charge overnight.

[busbus]

If those mobile labs aren't used, I'd try to steal them the day before. Plug them in so they charge overnight.

That's an excellent idea, Flipp.

It is a shame that we are told to integrate technology into our lessons, then not being able to have it available or only have limited use.

I personally do not like the idea of, "first come, first served." The resources in the school are for all, not just a few. Somehow, a schedule should be made so that there is equity. This being said, if a teacher opts out when he/she is scheduled, so be it. However, the option was given.

[Flipp]

Exactly Busbus!
A schedule is essential! Preferably a rotating schedule that puts everyone into the lab at least once a unit. Then people can cancel or trade spots.