b. Managing Learning in the Classroom

Whether you are using ICT or not, but perhaps more when you are, your first question here is how to arrange pupils. There are often more pupils than computers and particular CD-ROMs. By pairing the pupils there is an opportunity for help and exchange of ideas.

Here are some general principles:

• Start by eliciting pupils' existing ideas about the topic. Make sure points contributed by every section of the class are written up on the board/display. Illustrate every point with examples within the pupils' experience.
• During periods of whole-class teaching, keep pupils with low attention spans at the front. Ensure that they are involved by asking them to give reports and answer questions at an appropriate level.
• During practical work at the computers, separate any pairs/ groups who are likely to distract each other.
• For small group discussion, use groups of three or four. Form the groups by numbering the pupils around the class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1 (assuming six groups), so as to get a mix of abilities in each group and spread friendship groups around.

The next question is how to deal with monitoring of progress and deciding on intervention during practical work, so as to ensure that a good pace is maintained whilst reasonably equal progress is being made across the whole class. One way is to move systematically round the class, dealing with questions in the order that they arise, but also making a point of observing every pupils' work and questioning them about it. With group work, sit with each group in turn, helping to shape the discussion in a way that will enable pupils to make progress. Choose a capable pupil as reporter, and brief them to make sure that the entire group contributes something.

When pupils are using the WWW, clear reminders must be given about the rules concerning acceptable use of school computers and a careful watch must be kept on what sites are being accessed, even if the school uses a service which attempts to filter out unsuitable material.

In summary, you have several issues to consider in managing learning in this topic, including:

• Setting clear expectations concerning outcomes and timing, with appropriate instructions to ensure that pupils can get started on the task.
• The mixing of abilities when you set pair or group work.
• The arrangement of people in the room, including yourself.
• Keeping on top of intervention, and ensuring that all pupils get equal attention.
• Keeping the interest of all pupils during whole-class interaction.

You should keep a note of your responses to these issues for consideration with your mentor.

c. Helping Learners Develop their own IT Capabilities