7 Rules to Set for Classroom Computers

To maximize the use of computers in your classroom, there have to be clear expectations and rules for appropriate computer use. You should instill the rules and expectations from day one to make life easy for you and your students, whether working individually or as a group. The rules are meant to maintain students' expectations and class routine for classwork and behaviors. The students should be aware of the consequences if they violate the rules. Here are 7 rules to set for classroom computers.

1. Surf Responsibly & Never Download Software to a School Computer

Be the role model of responsible surfing by only accessing appropriate sites any time you are using classroom computers. Students should surf safely and only visit approved or assigned websites. If learners are unsure whether a website is safe, they should first consult with you. Educators can keep a list in the classroom that provides students with the sites they can and cannot visit. It is important to set clear expectations of the site's students' access for their assignments.

Also, students should not install software on the computers, and in case there is a problem with the software, they should ask the teacher or lab support team.

2. Clean Up Your Workspace Before Leaving

Students should know that using computers in the classroom is a privilege which means they have to clean up their workspace before leaving. After using the headphones, students should place them on the CPU or monitor, all cords should be placed on the designated areas and not be left hanging, and all the trash, pencils, and papers have to be picked up.

Before leaving the room, learners should ensure that they exit all applications and close all the server connections. Logging off the computer is a method of cleaning which will ensure the students' work and accounts remain private. Students need to leave the computer ready for the next user by logging off.

3. No Drinking or Eating While Using the Computers

No student should be allowed to consume food or drinks while using computers, with no exceptions. The computer room should be made food-free, which will keep the computers clean and safe.

Food particles can fall on the moving parts of the computers and damage them. Also, liquids may spill into the computers, which can cause them to rust or have electrical faults. The risks of eating and drinking in the computer room can impact learners, educators, and institutions.

4. Don't Change the Computers Settings

Learners are curious, especially when using computers, and they can interfere with the computer settings and background. For example, they can turn the screen upside down with giant cursors. An educator should explain to the learners that they should leave the computers as they find you can revoke them and computer privileges at any time.

5. Learners Should Properly Save All Unfinished Work

Any work not saved will be deleted when the computer is updated or powered off at the end of the day. A teacher should take time at the beginning and end of the lesson to show students how to save their unfinished work so they can find it next time. Students should organize files on the computer to be easily accessible in the next lesson.

6. Work Quietly

Computer work requires independent concentration, especially when typing or working on a project. Let the students know the volume they can keep when conversing to avoid distracting others. A computer lab is where serious learning occurs, and any form of noise makes learners make unnecessary mistakes due to limited concentration. If there has to be a discussion, learners should maintain a low tone.

7. Print Only When Necessary

If given the authority to print, students can go print crazy! Provide clear rules and guidelines when printing a project. And students should always ask permission before printing a document. 

Importance of Having Classroom Computer Guidelines

While you can create more than seven rules for your computer classroom, being open with your students about the cost of the technology and the privilege of its use can go a long way in treating the equipment with respect. Other important factors you can drive home include:

• Rules help the computers have a long-protected lifespan by avoiding damage.
• A computer laboratory is a delicate and important environment that requires strict safety maintenance.
• To prevent burns, electric shock, cuts, and damage to the eyesight, avoid improper usage.
• To continue using the computers, ensure the room is clean for the next class.

Written by Rosyline Kati
Education World Contributor
Copyright© 2022 Education World