We made folders on our desktops today. I showed the kids how to do it on the smart board several times and then we went through the instructions, no joke, at least six times. I asked what do you do first...ok what next...and so on. As soon as it seemed as though kids were able to respond...we did it one last time showing it on the smart board and talking it through.
I imagine this is more the way a kindergarten teacher teaches as everything seems new to these little guys. I think we take for granted that kids have an idea of how to do things in first grade and on...BUT with a computer it is back to square 1...so you have to repeat directions a gazillion times and show them...and MODEL MODEL MODEL until you think you literally beat it into the ground-and then try it one last time!
Was every kid able to make folders on their desktop after I repeated it (with the kids) and showed them at least 6 times...NO absolutely not...but did a majority of kids complete the task with little or no help...YES!!
AND I truly believe that I think the next time we create folders (now that kids have done it once) those kids who just needed a little help will be able to do it independently....it will only continue to get easier.
However, right now...EVERYTHING needs to be walked through lots of times and MODELED and repeated! It is just the way it goes...and I certainly don't blame the kids...it is all new to them...to be honest I am quite satisfied with how today went and feel very hopeful with how far we will go with the computers this year. I left today with a smile, knowing that the lesson was successful. :)
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