Maximize Classroom Learning

• 1). Email other teachers and administration about concerns or questions during the school day to minimize telephone interruptions and allow private adult communications. Respond to messages when students are engaged instead of wasting valuable learning time.
  
  
• 2). Use the computer to generate worksheets for reading, math, grammar and virtually any topic. Subscribe to websites that provide teacher resources and reproducible worksheets. Modify worksheets for different learning levels so that all students are appropriately challenged. Use the computer to create word search puzzles that can be customized for any subject based on the word list.
  
  
• 3). Write letters to inform parents about what is happening in the classroom or to request parental help. Provide parents with regular newsletters or updates. Enlist parents' collaborative efforts to maximize students' learning by keeping them well-informed. Send the information by email or print it on paper for students to take home.
  
  
• 4). Show educational movies on a computer. Find free movies pertinent to your lessons online or run DVDs on the computer. Find programs that explain parts of speech or discuss science topics, documentaries on history or health issues. Preview the documentaries and movies online to ensure they are appropriate for the class.
  
  

Student Computer Use in the Classroom

• 1). Assign independent projects. Direct students to research topics and write papers on the computer. For example, have students write biographies using the computer to research people and then as a word processor to write a paper. Teach them to use programs for checking their own grammar and spelling.
  
  
• 2). Utilize the computer for students with special needs. Teachers can adjust print size on computers for sight impaired students. Use word processing in lieu of writing for students with occupational therapy issues. Outfit a computer with ear phones for auditory learners.
  
  
• 3). Assign collaborative group projects. Have students create class presentations using the computer. Assign PowerPoint projects, which make it easy to fluidly make an oral presentation without index cards and can also be used to present visuals to the audience.
  
  
• 4). Use the computer for fast finishers or students who need additional practice. Find educational computer games that are leveled with little or no effort from teachers.