Technology has changed the way people interact. In a 21st Century setting, businesses no longer entirely rely on the traditional methods of advertising like the use of television to drive sales. Digital marketing is the in-thing. Companies compete on who can win the clients in the digital space.
For organizations, employees no longer have to work from the office. People are allowed to work remotely from the comfort of their homes. Consequently, businesses have massively reduced their operational costs. They do not have to rent huge office spaces or pay hefty electricity costs.
The education sector is not left behind, either. Previously, a classroom setup meant that students sat on desks as they faced the instructors who used chalkboards. Modern technology has changed that. At the moment, there are smartboards, and students have access to technological devices, including tablets, to facilitate the learning process.
Although the use of technology in the classroom has come with numerous advantages, there exist challenges that students and educators have to deal with. For instance, it is hard for teachers to manage 20-30 students when trying to meet the various learning objectives. What are the best strategies for managing the 21st-century classroom?
Work on a Proper Classroom Set Up to Achieve Results
Classroom set up plays a huge role in the achievement of the learning objectives. When a class is in the right pattern, it is easy for the students to seek clarification on concepts. Besides, teachers can see all students and identify those who are not following the lesson concepts. Instead of sitting in front of the classroom like in traditional setups, place your desk at the back to view all screens used by students.
Every student should know the device that they are supposed to use. Therefore, you should consider labeling all the devices. That way, a student feels a sense of ownership, and they can take care of what they use. Each student should have unique login details to the equipment that they use.
Enlighten Students on the Specific Classroom Guidelines
When you want to buy essay, you should get it done per your guidelines. Similarly, as the instructor, you should be in charge of the classroom. Students should give their suggestions on how to use the gadgets effectively, but you are the one to give the final verdict. If the learners notice that you are in control, they are more likely to behave well.
Set rules on how to use the gadgets and let students know what you accept and the things that are not allowed in the classroom. For instance, they should be aware of the safety guidelines for using the devices. They should not access websites that you have not specified. Additionally, set specific learning objectives each day.
Train Students Before You Incorporate a Technology
Technological devices are not fool-proof. There are times when they may break down. Moreover, do not assume that every student understands how to use the given technological devices. Therefore, you need to guide them before introducing a given technological device in a classroom setup.
How should you conduct this training? Students should know the different aspects of the specific technology in the classroom. Examples include:
- The reasons for the introduction of a technological device
- How to tell if equipment malfunctions
- Proper use of the devices
- The procedure for reporting a mishap in a classroom setup
Actively Participate in the Learning Process
The students may still be young. Therefore, you should not expect that they will follow all the rules in the book. As a teacher, you have the responsibility of following up on what they are doing in the classroom. That way, you can identify what is going wrong.
How should you monitor the classroom? Do regular check-ins to know how students are using these devices. If there is one that is stuck, guide them on what they should do. In case there is one who is working well, point them out as an example to others. That way, you can model good behavior in the students.
Regularly Interrupt the Use of These Devices
Although the use of technology in the classroom is a motivating factor to students, extended exposure to the devices may not be healthy. It is important to take breaks. Let students stand and stretch for a few minutes before they continue with the lesson.
The Take-Away
Modern classrooms are embracing technology. However, the learning objectives may not be met if these devices are not used properly. With these classroom management strategies, teachers and students can achieve more.
