Computer Labs: Considerations for Teachers

1
Computer LabsConsiderations for Teachers

• Prepared by
• Matt Maurer, PhD
• Butler University

2
Physical Organization of Computer Labs

• Room use dictates organization
• Room size
• Room shape
• Heat considerations
• Classroom vs. pods vs. perimeter
• Presentation considerations

3
Potential Room Uses

• Individual drop-in usage
• Classroom instruction
• Small group work
• Unsupervised children
• Internet access

4
Room size

• Minimum of 3 feet of free wall space per computer
  (three walls)
• Space for manuals and supplies
• Printer space
• Presenter space (if necessary)
• Viewing angle issues

5
Room Shape

• Classroom instruction square
• Drop-in narrow (greater perimeter)
• Minors with Internet access square

6
Classroom Style Organization

• Traditional classroom
• Easy to see faces
• Difficult to see monitors
• Good for lecture mode
• Good use of room volume (center)
• Many weaknesses

7
The Pod Arrangement

• High-tech look
• Good packing
• Useful for individual work
• Not ideal for group work or whole-group
  demonstration
• Poor monitor visibility

8
Perimeter Arrangement

• Most versatile arrangement
• Good for group work
• Good for whole group discussion
• Good for monitoring monitors
• Poor use of space

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Presentation Considerations

• Instructor station with projection system
• Screen size vs. distance
• Viewing angles
• Chairs that swivel
• Cords and cables

10
A Great Projection SystemThe Smartboard

• Touch sensitive
• Large screen
• Annotation capability
• www.smartboard.co.uk

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Peripherals

• Intended use of the lab determines the necessary
  peripherals
• A printer is essential, color is nice (paper and
  ink considerations)
• Scanners are very useful
• Digital cameras are great, especially Sonys
  Mavica

12
Staffing Considerations

• Responsible adult who knows all the details and
  has some time
• Instructors
• Set-up, repair and maintenance
• Use students they know a lot and can do a lot
  (with proper guidance)