The beginning of the school year was hectic and there were several issues with technology during the first two weeks. Because we were "behind" so to speak, we didn't go over usual technology protocol for use and care of tech tools. Please read the entire blog and follow directions at the end. Reading and commenting will count as a blog grade. After you have read the blog, make a comment at the end of this post. If you don't comment, I will assume you didn't read it. Your comment should include this statement: "I have read the classroom computer protocol and technology updates and I will do my best to abide by them. Include one other statement from the blog that you learned. Sign your name. Due by Friday, September 22.
- Check the number to assure you have the right computer
- Make sure it is fully charged and ready to go.
- Although we will not use the Macbooks every day, we will use frequently, have it already opened or immediately pull it up when you get into a class, this will help save time.
- When you return your Macbook to it's tray at the end of class, be sure it is in the right tray and the charger lights up. This is a courtesy to others.
- Do not carry your laptop by the screen. This will harm the built in camera.
- Clean the screen with wipes that are provided and never spray anything on your computer.
- Keep drinks and food away from your computer.
- Screens Down – Anytime someone is speaking (teacher, speaker or other students), screens will be tilted down. Nothing is more distracting to you or to others around you than someone surfing the web. Putting the screen down will help bring attention to the task at hand.
- Tech-Tips – It is required for you to have a Chrome toolbar set up on your computer. Always make sure you are logged in to your Chrome toolbar. Your name should appear in the top right corner of your screen. The minimum bookmarks you should have at this time are Canvas, BISD, My Blog, Your Blog and additionally you should have the goo.gl URL shortener as an add on. Others will come at a later time. Bookmarks are a HUGE time saver.
- Sound – All laptops will be muted during class time. If you are working on an independent project, you may listen to music with your headphones. Do not assume you can leave headphones in when you enter the classroom. When I begin speaking, remove your headphones. Do not charge your phones from the laptops.
- Camera Use – Your laptop is equipped with both a digital camera and digital video recorder. With these tools, we will create a multitude of projects from footage and photos you take. There are expectations that the photos and videos taken are appropriate and in good taste. The subject should always be asked before an image is taken of them. Privileges of these two tools will be revoked if used inappropriately. Please refrain from taping video and snapping pictures of people without permission.
- Self-Management – If it is not related to the task assigned, you should not be doing it during class. This includes email, Googling, and social networks. Self-Management of digital access is a lifelong skill that relates to productivity. Do not change the home screen on your computers. Manage your files and keep desktop clutter to a minimum.
- Saving work – You should be saving your work. Everyone has a Google Drive. You should save all of your work in your own drive. You can drag all types of files into the drive, even if they are not google files. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, jpg, png, PDF..
