Other Important Articles to Read: Getting Started Selecting Software Hardware Recommendations

I've been teaching with computers in Sunday School since 1990 and been helping churches develop their labs for nearly as long. On the way, we've learned a few things. There's simply no excuse for repeating our mistakes! So read this article, and then read the full discussion in my book, Teaching with Computers in Christian Education. <>< Neil

Things that amaze me about Computers in CE:

• Computers falling like manna from heaven in churches where you'd least expect it.
• Money coming from retired folks to buy software (and the number of retired folks who volunteer to teach with computers)
• The number of church staff & volunteers who openly admit to playing all the games in the software before the kids get it.
• Year after year how the kids' enthusiasm for learning on computers stays strong.

"Have a concept of use before you start hooking up computers and buying software."
<>< Neil

Thousands of people have heard me say this in seminars, over the phone, and in articles, ...and there's a reason why I keep saying it.

  READ & EXPERIMENT.  Churches that start computer labs based on little research often end up with little.

  HEED the ADVICE. I'm amazed by those who have never taught with computers in a Sunday School classroom who ignore advice from those who have. Our advice and approach is the product of 20+ yrs of teaching with computers in Sunday School ourselves, and the experience of our friends and customers.

  DON'T START WITH "TOO OLD" COMPUTERS.  ("too old" = more than 5 yrs old).

  SET IT UP RIGHT.  Multimedia computers stacked like cordwood on tables in classrooms with printers, speakers and mousepads vying for remaining space, and kids seated one to a computer with headphones on -is the WRONG WAY.

  DON'T OVER-DO IT.  Yes, you can have too many computers for the room size, class size or for your number of teachers, or for your budget.

  TEACH RIGHT.  Wandering the room and watching kids use the computers -is not teaching.

  KNOW YOUR SOFTWARE. Fully read the program's description, age range, and tech specs. And print our guides and lesson suggestions!

  BUDGET SMART.  Don't spend all your budget on computers and forget you will need multiple copies of programs, or things like: surge protectors, printers, ink, and teaching supplies.

Read three related articles for more help:  

Getting Started  &  Selecting Software & Hardware Recommendations

OTHER THINGS I KEEP SAYING:

 "Form follows function"...... If you're going to be studying, writing, conversing, and working together at a computer, then make sure you design the space around your computers to do this, i.e., don't cram them all together.

"Computers give off heat and sound."  (so don't put them in a small unventilated space)

"Don't leave your teaching instincts at the door of the computer lab."

"If you just want to make them happy, put in cable TV and serve doughnut holes."

"Read my book" ...it will save you time, money, frustration and FACE. It will also increase your likelihood of great success!

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I'd be happy to discuss or troubleshoot your computer lab concept with you. Give me a ring at 1-800-678-1948 or email me at neil@sundaysoftware.com  <>< Neil MacQueen

You'll also find help with your computer lab concept in my book, Teaching with Computers in Christian Education.