I still have students whose parents do not allow them to use the home computer. How do we go about convincing parents that this is a safe and effective way to learn?
And I always have students who don't have a computer in their home at all. Are there modifications to the at-home activities that teachers have done for these kids who don't have access?
It would be great if every kid had a computer at home, but unfortunately we all know that's the case. Even if they do have a computer, the parent may veto them going online.
I think if you have a specific parent you're concerned about, call them and let them know that this isn't just "playing on the computer" and tell them all of the benchmarks and skills your activity will address.
Worst case scenario is that student may just have to complete the assignments with paper and pencil.
One way I worked on this issue was to involve the parents early on and to explain to them why different technology tools were being used. I even presented to the parents at our school-wide Open House to build the buy-in. The vast majority of parents did not object (in fact, I can't think of ONE that was a definite absolutely not after hearing me out). Some were a bit skeptical at first, but the first time they saw what their students produced, it was not even a question anymore. I also made sure to emphasize how I made it safe and secure for students and to underscore how important it is to teach kids how to behave in an online environment.
I definitely made sure to accommodate students in class as well. Students who do not have access to any technology at home are really at a disadvantage to their more connected peers and these students benefit from this type of learning environment all that much more.
And I always have students who don't have a computer in their home at all. Are there modifications to the at-home activities that teachers have done for these kids who don't have access?
ReplyDeleteTry sharing this movie created by kids --> stepping into their world -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kra_z9vMnHo
ReplyDeleteIt would be great if every kid had a computer at home, but unfortunately we all know that's the case. Even if they do have a computer, the parent may veto them going online.
ReplyDeleteI think if you have a specific parent you're concerned about, call them and let them know that this isn't just "playing on the computer" and tell them all of the benchmarks and skills your activity will address.
Worst case scenario is that student may just have to complete the assignments with paper and pencil.
-Sean
One way I worked on this issue was to involve the parents early on and to explain to them why different technology tools were being used. I even presented to the parents at our school-wide Open House to build the buy-in. The vast majority of parents did not object (in fact, I can't think of ONE that was a definite absolutely not after hearing me out). Some were a bit skeptical at first, but the first time they saw what their students produced, it was not even a question anymore. I also made sure to emphasize how I made it safe and secure for students and to underscore how important it is to teach kids how to behave in an online environment.
ReplyDeleteI definitely made sure to accommodate students in class as well. Students who do not have access to any technology at home are really at a disadvantage to their more connected peers and these students benefit from this type of learning environment all that much more.