[bri]

Last year was my first year. I had one working computer in my classroom. I assume most classrooms have between 1-3. I would allow my students who finished early to get on the computer, well this was the same 2-3 people every time. I had a 10 minute time limit to give others a chance, but most of the people did not finish work as fast as they did. So they were on most of the day. I don't mind it if they do well on work. But when I would have free-time or inside recess I was bombarded with people to play on the computer. I know I will need something else this year. I am at a new school, so I'm not sure of the setup yet, but I know this will be a problem.
So if you have any computer management ideas PLEASE let me know!! Thanks.

[SuzyM]

I have more than one computer, but I would put the computer as part of a center. There are activities that allow more than one person to play, or they can take turns. You could have 2 children on at the same time. If centers last 15-20 minutes each, you may be able to get 2 rotations in the 40 minute period. Have the game all ready to go so no time is wasted setting it up. There are some neat sites to get some games. Some may also go with the text series you are using. Just an idea.

[jeanmarie]

I have had only 1 or 2 computers several times. I have a 20 minute block of time every morning first thing when we do some daily work and/or read/write. I put the kids' names on a huge chart with colored clothespins for markers. I put one marker on the first name and the other on the middle name (for the 2 computers - otherwise just 1) Every morning, that student(s) is excused from the morning routine to work on the computer. We do not use the word "play" because we use them for practice/exploration. Any time during that day, whenever that student is caught up or free, he/she may choose to return to the computer. At the end of the day, they move the marker down to the next name. The whole class helps them remember to move the markers. Believe me, nobody gets by with going 2 times in a row!! Since they are working during this time, missing the daily work once every 2 - 3 weeks is no big deal. I have used this with first graders and had no problems because it is fair. If you are gone for any reason the day your name comes up, you are just skipped in that rotation. That's life! Since the names come up the next day, it doesn't matter if we miss for snow or other events. I also do not use the computers during recess. I had BIG problems with kids bringing excuses to stay in, getting in trouble at recess so they were sent in, etc. I have used it as an incentive however. If you earn the incentive, then I insert that student's name on a sticky so they get 2 days' time. The 2 computers I have in my room do not have internet access so I can control what they are used for. Students may choose to use their time to type letters, reports, etc. or to practice keyboarding if they want. Hope that gives you an idea.