Computer Traffic Jams?
I want to show you how I solved my Computer Traffic Jam problem in my classroom. If you are like me, I only have 3 computers and 26 kiddos who want to use them for various reasons.
At our school we do Accelerated Reader, Math Facts in a Flash and Dreambox. So, the kiddos need computer time!
We do have a regular computer lab time once a week for 45 min. but this isn’t always enough. So, our classroom computers are always busy.
Here is how we solved the problem of kiddos just standing around waiting their turn.
I have done it a 2 different ways, so I plan to show you both!
First, I make each kiddo in my class a tag with their classroom number. I use classroom numbers for a variety of things, so they know their number well.
I used stickers. I put a number on each sticker, laminated it with my personal laminator (the lamination is a bit thicker and holds up better).
Then, I attached a piece of velcro to the back of each tag.
Here is a picture of how I store their tags. All it is is a small pocket chart that I cut to size and attached to the wall next to the computer station.
Then, I made simple number grids to put on each computer with 1,2, and 3.
When there is someone on the computer, they simply put their tag on one of the velcro spots next to the next available number.
You might want to check out:
Need some new ideas for simple routines in your classroom? This 155 page digital book has you covered!
Includes 28 articles from Organized Classroom, including topics such as:
• Classroom Jobs
• Organizing Absent Work
• Solutions for Constant Tattling
• A Quick Idea for Student Engagement
• Helping Student Get Organized
• Remembering Names on Papers
• Organizing All the Paperwork
• Bathroom Break Tips
…and even more!
Includes 10 additional freebie files! No need to enter in an email address for each one separately – just click and go!
When the first kiddo is done on the computer, they go and get the person who’s tag is next to the #1.
When that child is done, they take their tag off, move the others down and then they go and get the next kiddo in line.
Another way that I have tried is to put a long piece of velcro next to the computers and have the kiddos put their tags in a line from the top.
Then, when anyone is done with their computer, they just go and get the next kiddo in line from the top.
This works well if the kiddos are doing activities that are of different time lengths. That way they don’t have to wait for a specific computer.
It does take a lot of modeling and practicing, but it is worthwhile because I don’t have long lines of kiddos just waiting for a turn.
Thanks so much for stopping by and reading!
