Classroom Technology Rules
by: Rachel Cromer
The classroom environment is quickly changing as technology is becoming immersed in many aspects of the classroom. Students need specific rules and guidelines to help them use technology in a safe and effective way. There are many aspects to working with technology that students should respect and be aware of. Classroom rules can be very specific or more general depending on the teacher’s goals and preferences (Starr, 2011). Many different ideas for classroom rules are discussed below to help teachers get a head start on building their own rules.
Starr (2011) talked to many experts including technology specialists and experienced teachers to gather effective classroom rules for technology. Some suggestions and examples of classroom rules for computers are listed below:
- Never touch another student’s computer
- Only visit designated websites for assignments and activities
- Respect the computer equipment
- No food or drink near the computers
- Do not change desktop backgrounds, icons, etc.
- Only use designated “safe” search engines
- Always use your login and no one else’s
- Ask for help if you don’t understand something or if your computer malfunctions
Guidelines and rules for using cell phones and tablets must also be established in the classroom. These rules can be very similar to the computer examples listed above; however, they should be a little more specific. Here is an example of iPad and cell phone rules that can be posted in the classroom:
A great way to present classroom rules to students in an engaging way is through creating an exciting video. Three examples of technology rules videos that were created by other teachers are included below. These videos were created using a free website, PowToon. These videos also give great ideas on specific classroom rules that can be implemented!
Another good strategy for presenting rules to the class is to let the students brainstorm ideas with the teacher. The teacher can write rules on an anchor chart through group discussion to find out what the students think is important. The teacher can add and influence ideas as needed but, students will take much more ownership over following the rules if they have a hand in creating them.
Parents may wish to create a similar set of rules for students to use at home. Teachers should communicate rules with parents so that everyone is on the same page. An online resource is provided here that helps families create teachnology rules and plans specifically for their home and children : Family Technology Use Tips for Parents - www.thelearningcommunity.us/resources-by-format/tips-for-parents/family-technology-use-policy.aspx
Also, some parents may be unsure about what technology is appropriate depending on the child's age. This online resource describes suggested technology use, rules, and activities based on age: Children and Technology: Parent Guidelines for Every Age - technologyandsociety.org/children-and-technology-guidelines-for-parents-rules-for-every-age/
Finally, an online game link is provided that teaches students the importance of internet safety, rules, and why they must be followed. It is presented in a fun game-like way so students can have fun while they are learning about online rules! Cyber-Five Internet Safety Rules Game - www.abcya.com/cyber_five_internet_safety.htm
References:
Starr, L. (2011, June 14). Digital Safety- Computer Rules Prevent Problems. Retrieved July 7, 2018, from https://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech044.shtml
Images Retrieved from:
iPad Classroom Management. (2017, March 2). Retrieved July 7, 2018, from http://www.georgetownisd.org/Page/8662
Sanders, J. (2016, September 18). 10 Classroom Rules for Using Technology. Retrieved July 7, 2018, from http://blog.whooosreading.org/10- classroom-rules-for-using- technology/
Van Horn, S. (2013). Setting Up iPads in Our Classroom. Retrieved July 7, 2018, from https://www.3rdgradethoughts.com/2013/03/setting-up-ipads-in-our-classroom.html?m=1
Video Sources:
Classroom Digital Rules. (2016, July 13). Retrieved July 7, 2018, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXRsR4o2WEM
Classroom Technology Rules. (2017, November 28). Retrieved July 7, 2018, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyvBae5OSYo
Classroom Technology Rules. (2018, March 16). Retrieved July 7, 2018, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLiJxmdxdsA