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I've decided that any attempt to "manage" how teachers use their smartphones, tablets, and laptops during inservices or workshops is futile. It's a waste of my time and it frustrates the teachers in the classes.
And that decision is actually working out quite well.
While these experiences have simply engraved my conviction that control is illusory a little deeper into the belief system area of my brain, they have also given me some ideas how all educators might manage device-infused classrooms as LWDs (Learners With Devices) become the norm rather than the exception in many schools.
Some management techniques to consider:
- Have clear and simple rules for the use of technology in your classroom. And let students know what they are. Mine are pretty easy: Student-owned technologies such as cell phones and laptops may be used in the classroom when there is not a whole-group activity, when their use does not distract other students, and when the district's Acceptable Use Policy is followed.
- Require all devices be visible during class time. Technology that is visible is less likely to be misused. No devices under the desktop, in the pocket, in the book bag, etc..
- Have planned, sanctioned means of online (back channel) discussion. Learners need a means of communicating laterally - among themselves. This will happen whether officially sanctioned or not. Set up a TodaysMeet, GoSoapBox, Socrative, or Wallwisher site to facilitate online discussions - and as a form of group notetaking.
- Have approved activities, readings, resources that students can use when otherwise disengaged in or finished with F2F activities. If students finish required work early (or wish to time shift work), there should be a number of choices of other online activities which they won't get in trouble for doing - working on a shared document, reading a supplemental article or book, playing a game that reinforces a curricular objective. Think positive alternatives.
- Have students work in groups whenever possible. I find students are more focused and on task when working in groups. The team usually does not approve when a member wanders on to Facebook instead of participating in the school work.
- Walk around the class. 'Nuf said.
- Accept the fact some learners will just tune out and getting them on task may not be worth disrupting those on task. Not everybody learns from lectures or discussion. Accept that even your most riveting monologue will not be appreciated by 100% of every group. Good classes are about students learning, not about teacher ego.
We can fight, limit, complain about, ignore, and deny but we cannot prevent learners having and wanting to use their technologies during class. The sooner we learn to take advantage of these powerful tools, the happier everyone will be - student and teacher.