While today’s society is becoming ever more technology centered, it is vital for learning to be the central focus of all classroom activities. While some classes may be able to incorporate technology, others may be restricted, and therefore it is the teacher’s discretion to set classroom rules for technology. Teachers will have the support of administrators when it comes to technology occurrences in their classroom.
Classroom Rules for Technology:
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Use of technology in the classroom begins and ends with the teacher’s discretion.
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Devices are to be used for learning activities at all times.
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If someone else is speaking, devices should be put down and attention given to the speaker.
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Give credit to others where necessary when using devices to research.
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Phones should stay out of sight whenever not in use for class activities.
Consequences for Technology Rule Violations:
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Teacher may confiscate phone until the end of the period.
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Teacher may confiscate phone until the end of the day.
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Teacher will turn phone in to administrators for parents to pick up after school.
As with any disciplinary problem, there is a gradual build to consequences for technology violations. When any of the above occurs, it is vital for the teacher to contact the student’s parent to inform them of the issue. Seeking out the assistance of parents as partners in their child’s education will see them more likely to support your decisions throughout any processes.
Classroom Rules example:
Rules for Computer Labs:
Tips for integrating technology:
For more resources on classroom techology rules and consequences, visit the follow websites:
https://www.weareteachers.com/managing-cell-phones-in-class/
https://www.edutopia.org/article/3-tips-managing-phone-use-class
https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/creating-a-cellphone-policy-that-works-for-everyone
Resources:
Video 1: YouTube | "Classroom Technology Rules" | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKhda-tV8wk
Video 2: YouTube | "10 Classroom Rules For Using Computers" | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lr28xBF2brg
Video 3: YouTube | "Blending technology and classroom learning: Jessie Woolley-Wilson at TEDxRainier" | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0TbaHimigw
Image 1: Alison Pearce Stevens | "Phones in the Classroom Hurt Everyone’s Grades" | https://www.sciencenewsforstudents.org/article/phones-classroom-hurt-everyones-grades
Image 2: The University of Texas at Austin | "Improving Adolescents’ Social and Emotional Lives Must Go Beyond Teaching Them Skills" | https://news.utexas.edu/2017/06/08/improving-adolescents-social-and-emotional-lives/
Image 3: Edward Graham | Using Smartphones in the Classroom"| http://www.nea.org/tools/56274.htm
Website 1: Elizabeth Mulvahill | "Cell Phones in Class Driving You Nuts? Try One of These Clever Ideas" | https://www.weareteachers.com/managing-cell-phones-in-class/
Website 2: Liz Kolb | "3 Tips for Managing Phone Use in Class" | https://www.edutopia.org/article/3-tips-managing-phone-use-class
Website 3: Rosalind Wiseman | "Use this classroom activity to co-create norms and expectations with your students." | https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/creating-a-cellphone-policy-that-works-for-everyone