Has your school implemented BYOD, but you are thinking OMG? Don’t panic. It is possible to get the most from a BYOD environment without going crazy. Try these tips in your classroom.
- You are the leader in the classroom. Control the use of devices when you or anyone is addressing the class. Devices should be on the desk, screen down, knees toward me, lid closed. Allow devices only when the lesson requires them.
- Ask three before me. Encourage students to support each other since you’ll not be able to support all of the devices yourself.
- Keep your management plan in place. Create and enforce consistent consequences in your room for off-task behavior.
- Bring it out only when necessary. Not every lesson will require a device.
- You do not need to know how to use each device, but you should know what each can do. Students should all be able to use their own device, regardless of the lesson.
- Start small. It’s always wise to start with baby steps. Millions of apps and websites exist, and the volume of information and options can be overwhelming. Choose one or two to become comfortable with and to start with.
- Walk around. This helps encourage on-task behavior and lets you scan for students who need additional support.
- Always have a Plan B. Sometimes technology fails. Be sure there are other ways to support your lesson.
- Clearly communicate appropriate use. Before you let students use their devices when they finish work, make sure you specify what they may do with the devices (i.e.: read, play games, complete homework).
- Don’t give up. If your first BYOD lesson doesn’t go as planned, try and try again. Patience produces a great runner, so be happy with small gains and work your way up to leading the race.
TCEA members, don’t forget about the BYOT/BYOD group in the Social Community, where you can find and share information and experiences related to the implementation of BYOD in school districts. We encourage you to join the group today! And the August 2012 issue of the TechEdge magazine was devoted entirely to BYOD success.
