What to do? What to do?

      A few days ago, I was asked if I had any plans for what to do with my computer lab.  I clarified if the person wanted to know about down the road.  When they confirmed I was on the right track, I asked if they wanted my "pie in the sky" plans.  They gave me the green light for that.  Then, I think I shocked them because I have already been toying with this in my mind for almost a year.  

      Currently, we have 2 computer labs on campus.  The first lab is for PK - third grade students.  The students use this lab under the supervision of their teacher.  Our second lab is for fourth - eighth grade.  I am responsible for the lessons that the students complete.  I am the only teacher in the room with them at the scheduled class time.

     So what have I been tossing around in my brain?  My first suggestion is that the fixed tables full of desktop computers be removed.  I pointed out that the room truly does not allow space for students to collaborate.  My dream would be to have a cart of laptops and a cart of mobile devices.  I don't believe that we should always just force something to be done on one device.  Students will need the experience of choosing the correct device and program or application.  I would also set up a few stations where a monitor is mounted to the wall and hooked to a Mac mini.  I would like a table coming out from the wall where students could collaborate on various projects when needed.  I pointed out the need for furniture that is flexible.  I want things to be able to be moved into lots of different configurations based on the task at hand.

    While I'm dreaming big, I would love a 3D printer and other things that would be found in a Maker Lab.  Things like Makey Makey, squishy circuits, etc.

    Then, I really went for it when I talked about not using the lab in a scheduled class manner like we do now.  I would love to see it be a room where classes come with their teacher.  The teacher and I work with them on projects based on things they are doing. (Currently, I use topics from classes, but it is not fully embedded into the curriculum.) I would also love to truly incorporate a full genius hour environment.

   I would love feedback on my "pie in the sky" plans.  I would love to hear about what has worked for your school.