I am an Instructional Technology Coach at a Title 1 Middle School. We are nearing the end of our first year of 1:1 iPads. The feedback I've received the most from administration is that there are no school-wide routines or expectations surrounding the use of iPads in the classroom. I am attempting to create a flow chart of common middle school iPad shennanigans and suggested routines to proactively eliminate or slow the spread of that behavior. Ex: Students are using their iPad when a teacher is talking/giving directions. Teachers can institute an "eyes up, ipads down" policy and use apple classroom to lock student devices for the duration of the needed time.
What are some routines or expectations that have worked in your middle schools who have gone 1:1 iPads? Is there any reading I can do to help coach my staff into creating these expectations and routines at the beginning of the year?
April 23, 2025
“Eyes up, iPads down” is a pretty solid start to be honest, ADuffyITC!
I have a similar one: “iPads locked, flat, and face down on the desk”. Apparently, I’m notorious for saying that! 😂
The simpler the better with these things. Then, it’s easiest for students to meet our expectations, but—maybe more importantly—there’s also less friction when trying to get all teachers/staff on the same- age and doing the same things. Inconsistency of application of anything like this is always it’s downfall, so the more straightforward the better!
It’s also worth having the “eyes up, iPads down” approach applied to other situations too: When other students are speaking or presenting, either in small groups or at the front of class. Could help to reinforce good digital etiquette and manners when they are in social situations and settings and have phones.
Best of luck with it!
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