Distribution of Computers in a School

The following is extracted from the Web66 listserv:

Dr. Summers,
I have been in this situation several times, and it is about as enjoyable as dividing 5 ice cream cones between 10 kids. Is there a desire to be consistent? If not, let each discipline decide how they want to use their share. Some may opt for the roving carts, some may not. A lab situation should only be considered if the majority of the staff wants one, and there is a very well qualified person already on staff that is trusted and respected by the teaching staff. Labs go to waste easily if not well managed. Teachers don't have time to poke around a lab to see what's there, so the kids get left to their own choosing or do only that which the teacher knows about. Either is counter productive. The best situation, in my opinion, is to have classrooms networked with as many stations as possible, AND a lab with a well qualified person. Teachers will learn the most in this environment, and so will kids. There's nothing like a lab setting to introduce new concepts, and nothing like a classroom computer for some private practise or exploration. Teachers benefit greatly as well from having stations at their disposal. The usefulness of email jumps out much more quickly, as well as many other "unforseen" benefits.

One other point:

I highly recommend addressing up front who pays for and orders the print cartridges, paper, and other misc. costs that become requirements when new computers pop in. Lord have mercy if you don't. I've been there and seen that movie. It can get bloody.

Gail Watson

Mrs. Gail Watson
Computer Technologist
Pattie Elementary School
16125 Dumfries Rd.
Dumfries, Virginia, 22026 USA
http://www.illuminet.net/pattie/
Moderator of the PALS Mailing List,
Fun and Educational email for Kids
More information is found at:
http://www.illuminet.net/pattie/summersch/actv_frm.html