The best way to deal with behavior problems is to stop them before they start. To prevent behavior problems from arising during computer-based activities:

• Give students clear and specific instructions. "Surf the Internet for information about _________" isn't good enough. A better, more defined task might be: "Go to Dictionary.com and find the definition of a hero. At Biography.com, look up information about a specific hero. List four reasons why that person is a hero."
• DON'T SIT DOWN! Computer use requires more hands-on and eyes-open monitoring by teachers. Walk around or find a spot where you can see all the monitors at once.
• Praise loudly and often. ("I see Sonia is on the right page and working hard. Oh, I see James is there now too.")
• If you have the necessary hardware and software, project your computer screen onto a TV, projector screen, or other computers, and demonstrate to students exactly what you want them to do.
• Write on a chalkboard the steps of the activity and then read them aloud. Have students repeat the steps aloud as well.
• Be alert for students who click or type when they're supposed to be listening.
• Be especially aware of students with special needs. You might be surprised by their technology abilities or by the kinds of difficulties they encounter. Some might need printed instructions; others might need you to give them only one step to accomplish before going on to the next step. Modify tasks and expected behaviors as necessary.
• Remind students often of the task and time remaining. Computers can turn even serious students into distracted slackers.

If, in spite of your best efforts, behavior issues do arise, deal with them quickly. Don't give them a chance to escalate. Warn disruptive students and get them back on task immediately. Move chatty students to another seat -- or to a seat close to you. Follow your regular discipline plan for students who continue to misbehave after a warning. As a last resort, provide students who repeatedly break rules or are off task with written work to complete during computer time. Students love using the computer, so withholding computer use is a great motivator.

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