Computer Lab - Help Needed

Anyone who's been in a computer lab with a group of 28 students can attest that things rarely run smoothly. If you're interested in helping, this would be a perfect time to do so. Our computer lab sessions are every Thursday, from 13:00 to 14:30. More often than not, we are also able to stay there until the end of the day as no one else ever uses the lab for the 30 minute period after ours.

Here's what I'm looking for in a parent volunteer:

-good knowledge of Gmail
-good understanding of how Google Docs work
-excellent trouble shooting skills (every time we go, there are always a few computers that are not working properly)
-can work independently, learn easily

Notice I used "good knowledge" instead of "great knowledge". Gmail is pretty straight forward so I am convinced you'll be able to learn things quickly.


I've realised that many students still have trouble doing the basics while using a computer and there is no time for me to teach, troubleshoot, and help everyone.

I could give you a focus every time you come, it would not be hard at all to join in the fun.

Let me know if you can help!


I've included a few photos for you. All of these were taken a few years back, in one period at the lab. It should give you a better idea of what I mean when I say I need help to do some troubleshooting. Odds are this kind of day will very unlikely happen again but I am always prepared for the worst, 'just in case'!

Electricity

Here's a little exercise we did in class today, to help students visualize "les trois règles de l'électricité". I much prefer hands-on activities but in this case, technology helps a lot.

Click on this link to get to it.
 

Of special note:
Perhaps some of you are expert in the field, but keep in mind that because students are only in Grade 6 and 7, we need to keep things as simple as possible. It's been proven that when students learn too many new concepts (or terms) in one session, they will have difficulty understanding the concept being taught later on.

Division 3 students are gradually adding new vocabulary words to their "banque de mots" in Sciences and this is very exciting! This would be a great conversation to have over dinner this evening...

Teenagers and Texting

This post is addressed to parents. The article I just read and would like to share with you today is written in French but I think I found its English equivalent.

Please add a comment to this blog if you've read the article. So I know who you are, make sure to add your child's # in the comment section. No need to add personal comments if you don't feel inclined to do so.

Thanks!

Private and Personal Information

Since last week, we have been discussing internet safety during our computer lab sessions. I have been using many of the lessons from Common Sense Media (formely know as Cybersmart! Curriculum).

As homework for parents, please read this handout. Add a comment to let me know you've read the handout (click on the picture and it will enlarge). Make sure to include your child's number so I know who you are. Remember... Do not share your private information on this blog!

Here's how I would like it to appear to make things easier for me:

#29 - I have read the info sheet you have just posted. Thanks so much! (or something similar to this)

Computer Programming

How is everyone's summer going so far? With this beautiful, sunny and warm weather, I thought some of you may be looking for something to do in front of a computer.

Read the following article: Creative Kids Win Kodu Video Game Design Competition.

If you own a PC and would like to investigate Kodu, click on this link.


Let me know if you end up creating something. I'd love to take a look at your work!


:-)