Blog #3

Tech Alternatives for the One Computer Classroom

By: Mr. Byrne

This blog caught my interest because I am always looking for new activities to use in my classroom.  I also have co-workers that come to me and ask about how they can use computers in their classroom.

The part of the post that interested me was the title.  I was excited to see that there were 10 different activities posted!  I was also interested in the following ideas posted:

1. Game Show Host- There are a ton of interactive games, note taking techniques, and simulation activities on the internet. Allow one student to direct activities projected on the screen or fill in a graphic organizer on the dry erase board and another student to make the movements on the computer. Students can be grouped to increase competition.  
• Example- Go to http://www.schooltimegames.com/ and search for games based a lesson you will be teaching.  Divide students into groups of 3-4 and allow them to compete against each other in a game. One student will operate the computer and be the score keeper.
2. Competition Tool- Play the games or competition listed above (in #2). However, make it a competition between classes to get the whole class involved. The results can be calculated on the board or tracked using an excel spreadsheet with a bar graph.

http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2012/07/tech-alternatives-for-one-computer.html#disqus_thread

My Response:

I enjoyed reading this post.  I think all of these are great idea for a teacher with one computer in their classroom.  I also like how it posts websites for teachers to use!  That is my biggest complaint when reading blogs is that I would like to see examples  or websites that would help teachers create or work on the ideas posted in the blog.  I am a computer teacher that has access to a lab on a daily basis and I can see myself using several of these idea this year.