Since there are not enough hours in the day to fit everything in and not enough computers for student use, I would like to design some assignments that can be done at home using technology. I checked with my students and 90% of them have access to a computer. I will work something out with the few students that don't by allowing them time to use the classroom computers.
I started out with something simple. Typing their word study words three times, printing them out and bringing them back to school.
I was pleased with how many students were able to complete the assignment. One student came back and told me his dad wouldn't let him use the computer because he had to work all night long. He told me his brother wouldn't let him use his computer. Now, I have to take what this student says with a grain of salt. However, I was frustrated that a parent would not allow a student to complete an assignment that would have probably taken 10 minutes. So much for thinking outside the box!
Don't give up . . . it is an interesting idea to design computer-based assignments at home :-) Perhaps more collaborative assignments might work. Then parents would have to get invovled - be the teacher - a third job :-) They might also be more interested in letting their children use the computer if they too are fascinated. Sending students to a website game or puzzle or finding the answer to three questions about something you are studying might engage parents. A design strategy to try :-)
ReplyDeleteYou could start a blog where you post questions. The students would have to log on and leave a comment. It could be a math questions or something they have to search for on the web. You could also just have them leave their opinion on an issue. Just a thought :)
ReplyDeleteDid you try your computer based homework assignment again? That's a great concept! Unfortunately less than 50% of my students have access to computers at home.
ReplyDeleteI've never thought to try homework on the computer. I maintain a blackboard site and encourage the kids to visit there to find sites that would be great for practicing their skills.
ReplyDeleteLike Aedin, I'm also wondering if you have tried it again? Maybe this time something they don't have to print? I know some of my students have mentioned that printing is a problem at home.