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Using Wireless Laptops in the Classroom. The Mathematics Department Tower Hamlets College. Richard Tarry. A Context. The Maths Department at Tower Hamlets College has 12 full time and 4 part time teachers We provide Maths courses across the College from Entry level to Level 3 (AS/A2)
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Using Wireless Laptops in the Classroom The Mathematics Department Tower Hamlets College Richard Tarry
A Context • The Maths Department at Tower Hamlets College has 12 full time and 4 part time teachers • We provide Maths courses across the College from Entry level to Level 3 (AS/A2) • We deliver about 250 hours of teaching per week • About 80% on our teaching is done on our main Poplar site
Courses We offer a variety of courses to our predominantly 16 –19 year students • AS/A2 Mathematics • AS Use of Maths • GCSE Maths retake course • FSMQs at level 1 • Application of Number
New Qualifiations C2000 • Introduction of FSMQs in response to demand for new Maths qualifications • FSMQs develop Maths skills in context • Require coursework, encourage the use of ILT • THC decides to use Foundation level (L1) FSMQ as a step toward GCSE
Growing Use of ILT Sept 2001 • THC is offering 8 – 10 level 1 FSMQ courses • Introduces the new AS Use of Maths, based on level 3 FSMQ • Minimum requirement for about 27 hours pw in IT rooms • General push to encourage use of ILT in all Maths teaching & learning
Problems & a Solution Sept 2002 • Shortage of IT rooms, but increasing demand • IT department reluctant to provide rooms for Maths when we wanted them • Varying pattern of demand • College offered a Maths IT room and suggested a trial set of laptops
Very flexible Can be used in various rooms Set can be split for use by 2 groups Positive response from students Problems with reception and bandwidth - cold spots Moving the trolley Maintenance – cables, recharging Security Cost (desktop x2) Sixteen Laptops and a Trolley
Current Operation • Most teachers are comfortable with the laptops • Technical problems have been resolved - except the wireless printer • Booking system plus building staff to move the trolley • Flexible staff in one workroom • Need another set – but expensive • See photos
Checklist • Staff training and acclimatisation is essential • Technical problems must be addressed quickly • Physical considerations – movement, location of electrical supply, transmitters • Printers? • Ownership – booking system, administration & maintenance