I agree with you Kobus. The first computers in a school should be placed in a central laboratory.

A computer lab allows for the transfer of skills and knowledge to the school population as well as to the parent community in an organized fashion and allows everyone to progress according to a planned strategy.

They move from technophobia to technoboffens in about 18 months.

The next stage is to place the technology where the learning experience traditionally is enjoyed; in the classroom. However, the format changes. We could add technology to teach with [EIWB, DVP etc] or technology that supports personal learning [Laptop, iPod, iPad, etc] This is where the true impact is of a higher value because the end user focuses on the curriculum use other than the wow of the device.
NB: I quote Kobus van Wyk….
“Computer rooms and classroom ICTs both have a place in schools provided they are used optimally by teachers and learners.”

We get @ schools Libraries, Science LABs, Biology classrooms, Art classrooms and Computer LABs.

It (IT = computer) forms an integral part of the school layout.

Yes, there is place for computers in a central room just as there is now place for woodwork classrooms, metalwork and electrical studies classrooms, domestic & hospitality studies classrooms, language laboratories and many other specialized areas in a school.

Long live the LAB !

Albie

Excellent piece of writing using really great tips…Thanks for putting the tips together…

Computer rooms should be a part of a modern school unless it is used to connect social media which is a waste of time.