Classroom management in the computer lab

A computer lab lesson can quickly turn into chaos: logins fail, learners open other websites, and time runs out. A few routines make a big difference.

Before learners arrive

• Switch on the computers and open the lab start page.
• Test the internet connection.
• Write the task and time limits on the board.

Entry routine

1. Learners line up and enter in pairs.
2. Each pair sits at an assigned computer.
3. Screens stay off, or hands stay off the keyboard, until you give the signal.

During the lesson

• Clear roles: one operator and one recorder, swapping at half time.
• Timer on the board: learners see how long they have left.
• Hands-up help system: a red card on the monitor means "we need help"; a green card means "we're fine".
• Walk the room: look at screens, ask questions and praise good method.

Ending well

• Five-minute warning.
• Learners save or screenshot their results.
• Close the browser and log out.
• Two-minute class discussion before they leave.

Logins

Create accounts before the first lesson and keep a printed list of usernames. Practise logging in once as a class so it is quick next time.

When things go wrong

If the internet fails, have a paper backup: a printed results table from a previous run that learners can analyse.

Sign up free and test your lab set-up before your first lesson.