Module 8 Activity 6 one-to-one learning

One to one computing learning is one in which each student works independently on a device at home or at school.  Ubiquitous learning is encouraged and there is an attempt to bridge the digital divide between those who can afford and those who cannot afford the devices.  In addition, differentiated learning is encouraged since students are able to learn at their own pace based on their needs.  The use of technology encourages students to become more engaged in the lesson and participate more in class.  On the down side, however, most one-to-one implementation strategies are based on the new tool as the focus of the program. Unless teachers break out of the limited vision that one-to-one computing is about the device, schools are doomed to waste their resources.

Technology will not be in every classroom and there are some principles learnt in the one to one vision that may be implemented in the classroom without technology. Chief among them is the need for teachers to continuously develop and be prepared at all times.  In this way, the learning will be focussed and the tasks meaningful. In addition, it is important that the students manipulate the learning as much as possible, using critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Module 8 Activity 5 Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive whiteboards are useful tools in a classroom with limited computers.  It is a great tool in a one computer classroom where the teacher can connect the computer to the board for projection so that a large number of students can view the lesson at the same time. The availability of presentation software will provide students with the opportunity to manipulate the learning and as a result keep them engaged. The effective use of the interactive whiteboard means that the teacher must employ the 5 p’s of success which are ‘proper planning prevents poor performance’ in order for the teaching learning process to be effective.

Module 8 Activity 4 The One Computer Classroom

The one computer in a classroom can be used by teachers to maximize learning if proper planning is done.  The fact that there is only one computer means that the teacher will have to find innovative ways of using the computer to enhance learning for all students. One great way of using the one computer in a classroom is to use it as a tool for instruction.  The teacher will project aspects of the lesson on the computer to a larger screen for the whole class to see. In cases where printing is possible, the teacher could make individual students print the work so that they can have their individual copies for the tasks at hand.

It may also be used as a resource tool for learners to prepare work and interact with the learning as well as a tool to improve social skills especially when learners are given tasks that they are required to do in groups. This fosters collaboration and sharing.

What transpires with the one computer in the classroom is dependent upon the teacher’s ability to plan and be innovated and creative to make teaching effective and learning improved.