Our kids also visit the computer lab once per week for about 45-55 minutes. While I would love for them to have more time, I don't see how they could fit it in with the current academic requirements and only 1 computer lab shared by 600+ kids (about 33 classes). Like Pres88, I would consider this a parent issue, not a PTO issue UNLESS the PTO is asking what it can do to facilitate such a change. For example, is the PTO willing to raise funds to help equip another lab and/or recruit volunteers to help with the classes? Looking at our school's schedule, I don't think they could add another hour for computer lab; however, if we could help them have more computers in the classroom, the teachers could tie in-class assignments to computer use. In our school, we have 1-2 computers in each class, but sometimes they are quite ancient. I would love to see about 4-5 current computers in each class. Then the kids could work in small groups and rotate through assignments. Another issue is that our teachers have no assistance in the computer lab. So each struggles trying to help 20 kids at varying levels of proficiency. Providing parent volunteers could really help that computer time be more beneficial and productive.
Also, like Pres88 - any question is welcome here. It's a great place to get feedback.
I honestly do not know. I do know that the day is full with all that they have to do. Our school currently has a computer lab with about 25 stations and there is 1 or 2 computers in each class. I would guess they get about an hour a week but am not sure. It is fine that you posted this here but in our school, I would not concider this a PTO issue. If this came up at a meeting, I would instruct the person to go through the principal and superintendents office.
I am on a mission to increase time for computer instruction at our school. They currently get 45 minutes a week. How much computer time do your children get a week?
