HIT: Computer Lab Rules

[Joyce H Nelson <jhnelson@WHRO.ORG>]

I'd like to extend sincere thanks to those who responded to my query about
developing rules for our newly created computer lab.  Many wrote to say
they either were in or would soon be facing a similar situation, and
could certainly empathize with our mission.  Others, who have already met
the challenge, wrote to offer their suggestions.  Let me share my findings:

As a committee of five, we focused on a trouble-shooting approach to
developing these rules, almost trying to outguess what might go wrong, if
certain issues were left unaddressed.  We wanted to communicate these
guidelines in as positive a language as possible, and avoid posting a long
list.  Here are the rules we submitted to our principal as a draft:


        A. Come in and sit quietly.  Listen for instructions before
touching/turning on computers.
        B. Work only with assigned programs.  Stay with the teacher; no
working ahead.
        C. Keep talking to a minimum.  There are others working close by.
        D. Time out for those who choose not to follow directions.
        E. No students in lab at any time without teacher.
        F. Keep food and drink out of computer lab.
        G. Bring only agendas and pencils to lab; no extra books, etc.
        H. Everyone using the Internet must have a signed AUP on file.
(Classroom teacher to go over guidelines with class.)
        I. Teachers to set up student Internet accounts.
        J. Email accounts may be created for students, but only for
duration of teacher-supervised projects.  When project concludes, accounts
must be purged.
        K. Teachers wishing to schedule classes in the lab need to sign up
in advance.  (Post in central location)


Other helpful suggestions included:
    -- Post 3 general "respect" rules:  respect ourselves, others,
property; brainstorm with classes and apply where appropriate

       -- Use red/yellow cups to call teacher for help

       -- Sign clipboard beside each computer (accountability)

       -- Turn mouse upside down before leaving, so teacher can make sure
mouseballs aren't missing.  Could have students serve as "Mouse Patrol" to
make sure everything is in order before leaving.

       -- Use shelving with some type of soundboard to act as barrier

       -- One school posted 4 basic rules:  be responsible; do your best;
always listen; cooperate and respect others; and added other rules, such as
using restrooms before class, chair safety, good posture, working to the
best of one's ability, keeping eyes, hands, and feet in own space, etc.

       -- One school posted the lab as a quiet zone, with no talking

       -- Make personal reminders about keeping mouse & keyboard on table,
keeping headphone cords out of mouth, etc., as needed

       -- Address rules as Etiquette and Expectations

       -- Instruct students on correct CD-ROM placement in drives to avoid
damage to hardware

       -- One school ties rules into school-wide conduct:  show respect,
cooperate, be prepared, challenge oneself

       -- Get permission before printing

       -- Assign seats for saving work and for security reasons

       -- Teach children where to save work, like in their teacher's
folder...

Again, thanks for the advice.  As I often find myself saying, "You folks
are the greatest!"

Joyce H. Nelson, Library Media Specialist
Dutrow Elementary School
Newport News, VA  23608
jnelson@dutrow.nn.k12.va.us

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