This week in my MTI562 class we have been learning about solving tech problems. With having experienced problems in the computer lab every time we go, I just naturally know what to do. Whether it is a hardware issue (mouse not plugged in) or a previous student did not log out, I could solve most issues. However, one of the tech problems we face is mostly "operator error", such as typing in the wrong email address or URL. I spend the time trying to figure out what the student did or didn't do correctly. This delays my time with the class and adds to my frustration in the computer lab.
As mentioned in MTI562, give the problem back to the student to solve. Being able to see their mistake would be a great accomplishment for them! I really like the idea of the students solving the problem because they need the opportunity to experience it. In the new Common Core State Standards, students need to be able to persevere and attend to precision. A few of my students would just rather raise their hand and ask for help without even figuring it out themselves. Just by looking over what they typed, they could see their mistake, such as reversing letters or leaving something out of an address. Sometimes I even encourage them to delete it and start over. A few other students who take it upon themselves have asked their neighbor to read the letters to type in so they can try it again. Using whichever strategy, I will be thrilled to see them face that problem and solve it on their own!
As for the other issues in the lab, I want to be able to show the students how to solve them on their own. Then they would be able to persevere through different techniques. If they try and it still doesn't work, then they can ask me. Most problems I experience can be solved by the student. This will be a great time saver for me and be able to attend to other matters in the computer lab.
I like that you have students persevere. I also tell my students to be persistent and keep searching for the answer to a problem This is funny-in foods class my 6th graders are making smoothies and one of the ingredients is frozen orange juice concentrate in a can. I have a student come to me ask how to get it out of the can! Told him he was smart and working with others that could help him out. I look over a few minutes later and he is squeezing the cardboard can with all his might and it is coming out a little bit a time. His helper turned to me and with a big proud smile said, "I told him how to do it!" I was thinking a spoon!! Anyway persistence and perseverance are so important.
ReplyDeleteThat is funny. I love seeing what students feel is the perfect solution. Those amazing brains.
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ReplyDeleteHi Julie,
ReplyDeleteI run into the same situation with high school students who would just rather raise their hand and acquire the answer from me. In the computer lab (with 24 students) sometimes students have to wait and many times by the time I get to a student who had a question he/she has already figured out the issue. :) I think it's great that there are students in your class who are "taking it upon themselves" by asking a peer to help solve the issue. We as teachers should be pointing out this type of "collaboration" to problem solving to all students in our class to encourage this kind of thinking.
If possible, you can run a project (like the problem solving board) where students become the expert on particular issues. They will enjoy being the geeky kid, realize it is in their toolkit, and hopefully extend that expertise to more areas.
DeleteI like the idea of a problem solving board and have students working through the issues. It will help them boost confidence and self-esteem.
DeleteI like the idea of a problem solving board and have students working through the issues. It will help them boost confidence and self-esteem.
DeleteI like the idea of a problem solving board and have students working through the issues. It will help them boost confidence and self-esteem.
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