The 30 Second Technician

Introduction

During a lesson, you have little time to fix technology bugs and breakdowns. There are a few quick fixes and some preventative measures that can improve the process.

1. Know the “Three Finger Salute” and use it often.

To unfreeze your computer program:

Hold down Ctrl-Alt and press Delete. This will bring up the Task Manager. If a program is frozen, click “End Task”. When a dialog box opens that asks you if you want to “End Now”, choose “End Now”.

If that fails, you can press Ctrl-Alt-Delete twice quickly. This should restart your computer. Wait about 15 seconds. If that fails, use the restart or off button on the computer, or unplug the machine. Remember the adage, “ If you want to compute, you must learn to reboot”.

If you computer crashes frequently, consult with me about it, and/or run Windows Update.

2. Run Windows Update.

Windows update automatically checks for patches and fixes or your software. It analyzes your system and chooses updates for you. With a few clicks you can easily download and install updates. Some of these are security updates that prevent viruses from invading your computer. See screen capture on the right.

3. NT or Windows Logon

When logging on to your computer, you may be confused by having two logon boxes. The first one is the NT Network Logon. Enter the current teacher password in that box. The second you may see is the Windows Logon. You should dismiss that box by pressing the Escape key.

4. Practice Prevention

Before you have students work with the computers on a project, test the program to make sure it starts and works properly. Do this the day before if possible. That way, you can request technical support in time.

If you use AlphaSmarts, test each infrared pod the first time you use them. Learn the master password and how to use it to change a student password.

Preparing for technology is much like preparing for any lesson that involves materials.

Only install software you intend to use. Never install a screen saver or other “just for fun” program. Many of these will slow down your computer by consuming RAM. Also, the more programs you install, the more chances of a conflict between software.

5. How to save to a floppy when logged in as a student

Choose File > Save. In the dialog box, navigate to the Desktop using the drop-down menu. Double-click on the “Shortcut to Floppy” icon and then save.

6. Can’t find a file when trying to open

If you are opening a file using a dialog box like the one below, and you cannot see a file you think is there, change the bottom drop-down “File Type” menu to “All Files. You should then see your file.

7.Observe caution when opening e-mail:

Although our e-mail is now filtered for viruses by the district, do not open suspicious e-mail. To delete SPAM, hold down Ctrl and select multiple items. Then press Delete.

8. How to clear a paper jam on an HP 940c:

This is now a common printer at the school. It is very easy to clear a printer jam. Teach your kids how: simply open the back door and gently pull out the paper.

9. Printer doesn’t print:

See attached troubleshooting guide.