Classroom+&+Computer+Lab+Strategies

Classroom & Computer Lab Strategies:
a. Recommendations on Classroom Management
 * Since Moodle can be used for a variety of activities such as chats, blogs, quizzes, tests, or accessing lessons the arrangement of the computer lab/ classroom is important. A computer lab of 40 computers facing one direction will allow for teachers to monitor student use. This set up allows for teachers to project their screen on to a larger screen in order to demonstrate how to log on to Moodle and go through the various activities that teachers may have posted.

b. Management of Instructional Resources
 * Moodle will be self-managed by the district and is an open source project that will be downloaded on the network. Moodle is freely provided for use under the GNU Public License Agreement. If by chance Moodle ceases to exist, other management sites that will be considered by the district include Blackboard, MoodleRoom, Angel, WebCT or School Pointe.

c. Accessibility of Technology Resources
 * The Web Accessibility Initiative provides numerous resources that assist users with providing technology that is accessible to all persons. All students will have the same opportunities to utilize Moodle to support their learning. Time during regular school hours, 1/2 hour prior to the start of the school day, and 1 hour after the school day ends, students will have the opportunity to support their learning if computers are not available at their homes.
 * Section 508 provides information on the law that pertains to electronic and informational technology.
 * Moodle Accessibility resources
 * Designated computers will have a 19" screen for students with vision disabilities.
 * Teachers should monitor situations carefully regarding students with disabilities. If barriers still exist, teachers should work with the technology coordinator to make the necessary changes.

d. Assistive Technology
 * Moodle is compatible with several assistive technologies. Several snap ins are available. The technology coordinator will look for and install any snap ins that are needed for students with disabilities. Assistive technology that is supported by Moodle includes screen magnifiers, alternative keyboards and mice, and voice recognition software. Another snap in that is available includes the use of video conferencing which allows for students who are not able to attend school to be part of the online learning community.
 * To enlarge the screen, click the control key and use the mouse button
 * Alternative mice and keyboards will be made available for students with disabilities. Designated computers in the lab will be equipped with the necessary technology.
 * Voice Recognition software will be installed on designated computers to assist students who need this support.

e. Technical Support
 * Using Moodle is a book provided by the Moodle community that is a free online book that the Moodle community can share and modify under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non- Commercial Share Alike 2.0 License.
 * Moodle Support
 * FAQ's
 * Lead teachers from each building will be used as support personnel for teachers. Any technical support that is needed will fall under the technology department.
 * If the server is down completely, teachers will need to resort to traditional classroom activities until the problem(s) can be resolved. Students and parents will need to go back to basics as far as gathering information about grades, assignments, etc.