Tool 8

My situation in the library is a bit different from what our teachers are going to experience this fall since I have had most of these tools in the library for some time. Over the past few years I have actively looked for ways to get the tools into the hands of our students. While the library tools are often used by classes as they are conducting research I have also helped facilitate podcast and video creations using the webcams and photo capabilities on the netbooks and MacBooks.
The iTouch/iPads do need some syncing with a teacher computer from time to time. One thing that I didn't expect is that once I had apps loaded the tools were really low maintenance and only needed to be updated periodically-not daily or even weekly! Actually I have spent more time making sure they are cleaned from time to time with a soft damp cloth or Clorox wipes.
The day to day management has been managed by my library helpers. At the beginning of the year I select 2-3 students I know I can trust and depend on to get out and put away equipment based on my instructions. Students love to help and having only a few trained in the beginning help control the situation until I feel confident that the tools are being taken care of the way I need. Then I can have those few train others. One teacher suggested picture cards showing what the station will look like if done correctly. I think I may try that next year, especially with the Wii tools.
One of our teachers shared with me that on the iTouch/iPads we can move seldom used icons over under another icon so that students won't see them. For elementary that could be very helpful since we can "clean" up the screen and declutter it of things that will only cause problems for our younger kiddos.
The district has had an Acceptable Use Policy in place for some time. It is very important for students and parents to understand their responsibilities when using the school technology. However, it is my understanding that this year will be the first time that families will have to opt out of the policy which should make things much easier when implementing the use of technology in the classroom and I look forward to that change.