As time permits, I also train students in the use of the classroom computers so they can guide internet searches and recording data on spread sheets and with graphing programs. Parent volunteers are present and are involved in the classroom as students begin their investigations and learn right along with the students. We do have a volunteer program being organized by board members that is in the beginning stages, and we hope to be able to eventually have them available to help with investigations and researching. We've had several volunteers make presentations in our classroom. I have three Macintosh computers in my classroom, all connected to the internet.
Students use email and the internet to connect with field experts and to do research.
We also have 5 more Mac's connected to the internet in the computer lab. All my students use the internet, email, spread sheets, data bases, graphing programs and Power Point throughout their investigations. There is also a management issue. The set-up of our machines and the need for help by students as they're just learning how to use this tool requires two of us to help those 5 stations. The teacher generally helps students with books and understanding the material.