Troubleshooting Guide for Educators

Hello, again!

Today I'm going to talk about something we hear in the classroom that gives a lot of us teachers nightmares...

"Teacher, my computer isn't working!"

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However, you can sleep easy and shudder no more as I have put together a quick troubleshooting guide for some common hiccups I have come across. It won't solve all, but it may get you through the next ten minutes before you have to tackle the next fire that needs putting out.

Problem #1
The pictures on the monitor are stretched and do not look right.

1. Right-click the desktop and click "Display settings" on the context menu.
2. Click "Advanced display settings"
3. Be sure the resolution is set at the recommended level. If not, change it to the recommended solution.
4. Reboot your PC and check to see if the problem is resolved. 
5. If the problem persists, speak to your technology specialist, as they may need to update the graphics card driver.

Problem #2

iPad without home button screen is frozen.

1. Press and quickly release the volume button closest to the top button.
2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
3. Press and hold the top button until the device begins to restart.

iPad with home button screen is frozen.

1. Press and hold both the Home button and the top button until you see the Apple logo.
2. An iPad with arrows pointing to the Home button and the top button.

If your iPad doesn't turn on, check your hardware and charge your device. 

1. Use a different power adapter or a different charging cable. 
2. Make sure that your iPad isn't too hot or too cold.

Problem #3

iPad's home button won't work anymore.

1. Restart iPad.
2. If that doesn't work, try taking off the iPad case.
3. Check if there is anything sticky that may have dripped on the button.
4. If that doesn't work, you can temporarily use a virtual button until it can be repaired. 
• Go to "Settings" 
• Choose the "General" option
• Click "Accessibility" 
• Turn on "AssistiveTouch"

Problem #4

When I project, the sound comes out of my computer.

1. Click the sound icon
2. Select the text at the top of the pop-up that appears. 
3. You should then see a list of all the audio devices connected to your computer. 
4. Select the one you want, or—if you aren't sure which listing corresponds to what set of speakers or headphones—try different options until the right one works. 

Problem #5

On my Chromebook, I got the message "Chrome OS is missing or damaged."

1. This issue can be resolved temporarily by turning your device on and off with the power button.
• Select 'Power Off' item from the recovery screen menu (if present) or press the power button until the device turns off.
• When your Chromebook powers down, press the power button to turn it back on again.
2. If that didn't work try a hard reset.
• Press and hold Refresh and tap Power.
• When your Chromebook starts up, release Refresh.

Reflection on the Gamification Process Thus Far

Hey, everyone!

The last time I spoke to you, I talked about how I was challenged to review my curriculum to incorporate educational technology while keeping the constructivism learning theory in mind. I chose to lean into gamification after learning more about the school, Quest2Learn. If you have not had a chance to check it out, give it a look! 

The Process and the Potential

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Planning this was really fun and generally a positive experience. I mean, how can you go wrong with game-making? I really enjoyed thinking of ways my students can go further with the technology they know to make an engaging game. I feel teachers, including myself, use so much amazing technology, and sometimes, we don't have the time to really take a deep dive to learn about all the awesome features and applications for them. Additionally, when the kids are working through the process, they, too, will be learning how to utilize technology at a deeper level. I also loved thinking about how not only would they be mastering the material to be the game maker, but they also have to really consider their peers' capabilities and learning as well to ensure they can play their game.

Challenges and Reflections  

The biggest challenge I have faced is figuring out the right time to get a detailed plan and try it out. Isn't that always the never-ending teacher struggle? For me, it can't take a ton of time as the other English Language Arts (ELA) teacher would be doing something else while I try it out, and eventually, we will have to move on to the next unit of study around the same time. Additionally, kids may get bored if it takes too long to see their work in action. However, I can only go so fast if I want quality work and to set my kids up for success in their first experience with it. However, a pacing calendar would help a lot with the curriculum timing. Kids could see the steps, and I would have an idea of a timeframe. The kids are familiar with creating and using calendars from other projects we have done, so it wouldn't be too difficult for them. In all, I will just have to try it and stay flexible with what pops up, but I feel that it is definitely worth it.

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Conclusion

To wrap it up, I feel that all educators should really take a risk, put their technology specialist hats on, and dig a little deeper. Not only will you create some engaging learning opportunities and meet the needs of your diverse learners, you will probably have a little bit of fun yourself!