technology in a 1st gr classroom

[teachmeplz]

I'm a new teacher and I'm feeling frustrated. I'm feeling the pressure to incorporate more technology in my lessons, but I have 2 ancient desktops, a laptop, projector, and a working desktop. I've done many things with the laptop and projector, but I want the students to have a more active role using the technology, rather than watching. Mind you, they're in 1st grade and some have no computers at home. Any suggestions on exciting things I could do in any subject?

[Boxcar]

This isn't computers, but it is technology...

The fives and sixes in the summer program love cameras. Having a digital for them to use in the room is great because you can sort through the pictures they take and not print the ones they don't want (i.e. a blurry smear of color or a photo of someone's pink shirt's sleeve). If you can find a cheap on that also have video, that would be exceptional. Look on eBay and other sites for slightly older version that are not expensive. The children don't need the cutting edge technology. If you can't do digital, go with disposable. It isn't as instant or as ecconomical, but hte students still enjoy it.

Tape recorders are cheap and easy for the children to learn to use. Those that aren't interested in reading or writing perk right up when you bring in a recorder. They love dicating stories into it and hearing themselves played back. Children can read into it and identify thier own trouble stops with assistance during playback.

I wouldn't worry too much about the lack of computers. At this age, it is mostly game play anyway. The old ones you do have can help them learn to type a bit, but i wouldn't expect any super progress there. The children's small motor skills still aren't at that coordination level in some cases. If you want to do research online with the children, hook your laptop up to the projector or a t.v. (There are cables you can buy rather cost-effectively.) THen, you can do the searching with the children or supervise as one child searches before the class.

[techteacher]

Google Earth is a winner for my 1st graders. They find their homes, the White House, stuff that matches what they're learning in class. We have a computer lab, but you could just as easily do it on one computer they can all see. Google Earth is a free download, so it won't even affect your classroom budget.

Good luck!

[Boxcar]

A computer can be hooked to a t.v. to make the screen bigger. Just smething to keep in mind...

[JBBallard]

I was in the same position as far as limited technology in my own classroom. I have high school students, but they loved it when I brought my MP3 Player and speakers to class; I quickly learned that implementing music into a lesson keeps them on their toes. Music in the classroom makes them feel a bit less like they're in school. Maybe you could use music to help with classroom management (when this music plays its time to quiet down) or when teaching alphabet sounds or about animals.

And as Boxcar said before me, attaching the television to your computer can allow you to create games through programs like Powerpoint.

Good luck.

[Boxcar]

I always forget about PP games... They can be lots of fun.

[Brit]

what kind of ancient computers are they? Can you get ancient applications for them? I guess what's possible is only limited by what's available and the imagination.

I suggest anything that's a draw program that can get them working on hand-eye coordination. Even old computers usually have SOME form of draw program.

I like the digital camera idea. To build on that, even basic powerpoint will slideshow downloaded images, IF the computer can be made compatible with the camera (unless you're on compy 486, it ought to work...on a 486, it might take some creativity.....). you could do great classroom versions of the "whose nose" "whose toes" book series!

[tech chick]

Remember, you don't have to go all out the first year. Start small and build on it each year. Start with what you feel comfortable with. Using a digital is a great idea. If you have internet access then you can show them favorite author sites, PBS kids, etc.

Also, talk around with other teachers at your school. There may be tech classes you can take for inservice. Some school systems have money for technology and new computers - it is just a matter of asking the right person and doing the paperwork. And there are always grants available.

Hang in there.