Policies for Primary

       Policies should not be made to " punish" students from different aspects of technology. Teachers should be allowed to use educationally appropriate educational technology in any form. Policies should be made for the good of the school, staff,  and students.    

A is showing B how to play Zombie Math

      Policies for being 1:1 with tablets in the primary grades need to be more specific than the policies in place for middle and high school students. Students in the primary grades come in to sites that are inappropriate, more often, by mistake. Students need to be comfortable while working with technology. They cannot learn how to navigate the web if we are watching them every second, nor can we actually watch their every click. Teaching students how to navigate safely should be a top priority when a district decides to roll out a 1:1 initiative with primary students. If students have had an explanation of what is expected of them while using their technology, I believe we can hold the student accountable for their actions. Disciplinary measures may be taken when the student has misused the technology. Students should also be aware of the consequences of their actions. 

        Parents need to be fully aware of the acceptable use policy. "If the materials were not carefully explained to every parent and a signature obtained after discussion of the documents, then a parent can legitimately claim that he or she did not know what was being signed."(Wells, 2010)  Students should not receive their device until a parent attends a meeting where the acceptable use policy was explained. Schools should offer this information at a variety of times that could be acceptable for parents to attend. A meeting should even be held right before the start of school. 
    Some teachers may find it difficult at first, but we have to begin to trust our students. We need to believe they are working on what they are supposed to be. (Taking a lap around the room a few times wouldn't hurt either;))

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