New Life: Diversify the Uses of Old Machines
Posted by: kmriebau in Instructional Strategies, Advice Column
At many of our schools in many of our classrooms we’ll find them… those old computers that we can’t wait to be replaced. I’ve been there, thinking about how my old, slow desktop will be replaced with something fast and new - and I couldn’t wait. I couldn’t wait to ditch that sluggish machine and be happy to never be at its mercy again. But then I was enlightened through the genius of others and saw a new potential in an otherwise hunk of recyclable parts.
Repurpose Recycled Computers
Naturally, the old will be replaced with the new, but you’ve been afforded an opportunity… you can keep those old computers! How about giving them new life? Here’s some ways how:
1) Replace Big Brother with Free Brother - install a Linux operating system like Edubuntu for free! We’ve found through testing that the OS works fast and crisp - and there’s even versions (Kubuntu) for slow computers to make them seem like a new kid on the block.
2) If you have a couple of computers in your classroom, consider using them for stations if you don’t already (especially primary teachers). One great way to provide students with practice is to install Promethean’s ActivStudio software onto your stations so that students can work on their own interacting with flipcharts. That’s right… you don’t have to have a board to be using ActivStudio! Also, kids can create their own flipcharts, too.
3) All those great resources you’ve been downloading from One Place can be compiled and packaged for your students to access in your classroom. Imagine having video clips, tutorials, websites, simulations, etc. all available at their fingertips when they need it and how they need it.
4) Use the computers as a publishing station for students to access a classroom blog or collaboration network in which they can post, share, collaborate, and reflect on their written work. GoogleDocs is a great way for students to have work that is always accessible as long as they have an internet connection. Their docs can be private or shared amongst their teacher and peers. For example, Language Arts can post written work, science students can post data on spreadsheets.
5) There are many other possibilities… use your imagination and be creative!
The point is people, don’t give up on those old machines! If set up right, they can provide quite a few more learning opportunities for your students in many dynamic ways before they keel over. The possibilities don’t have to be limited - consult an instructional coach or trainer and work with them to help you make the most of what you have - or are keeping, even when you do get that shiny fast new computer!
Sited Links:
Ubuntu
Kubuntu
Edubuntu
One Place
Google Docs
Promethean ActivStudio
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