Data Collection Guidelines

Internet Access in Computer Lab

It is ideal to have a computer lab with Internet access so that all students can work online individually. Since computer labs are generally shared among large numbers of classes it can often be difficult to gain frequent and regular access to the lab. Here are some things to keep in mind if you have a computer lab:

• Plan Ahead - This is common sense. In order to make sure you can gain access to the lab when you need it you should schedule lab time far in advance. In some cases you will need to make plans six months ahead of time!
  
• Select the Appropriate Time - If your access to the lab is limited then try and select the times when you will benefit most from using it. For example, when students need to collect data individually it can save a lot of time to have them all at their own computers.
  
• Collaborate with Computer Teacher - Often students spend time learning computer skills without much real world context. By collaborating with the computer teacher you can have students develop their computer skills by working on their existing projects. For example, if you want the students to graph the distance the ships travel vs. time then  you could coordinate with the computer teacher and have them do the work as they learn how to use a spreadsheet program.