Providing every student with reliable and consistent access to digital learning tools is no longer a luxury for school districts: it is the cost of a 21st century education. While it can significantly improve learning, widespread adoption of 1:1 student-to-device programs places a heavy burden on district resources for device maintenance, security, and software updates.
Schools are now tasked with not only ensuring every student has access to a device, but they are also tackling a new set of challenges with developing systems to manage repairs, replacements and secure internet access for thousands of iPads, Chromebooks and other technological devices.
By implementing efficient management practices, districts can help maximize the effectiveness of their technology investment and maintain a seamless learning experience.
Here are four strategies to help K-12 districts address the rise of 1:1 devices and other technologies.
1. Life support
Schools have long helped students understand how to respect and protect districts' investment in resources to extend their useful life. While we've come a long way from using brown paper bags as book covers, students still play a key role in caring for school supplies.
Investing in protective materials, such as durable cases, screen protectors, and keyboard covers, is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways schools can extend the life of their digital devices. These relatively inexpensive solutions act as a first line of defense against common accidents, such as drops, spills, and overloaded backpacks, which can quickly turn a functional device into an unusable one. By equipping devices with protective gear, schools can avoid frequent replacements and repair costs, while ensuring devices remain in good working condition throughout the school year and beyond.
Another way schools can foster a culture of device responsibility and care is by launching an engaging educational campaign that encourages students to properly maintain their digital tools. Elements could include briefings, posters, and ongoing reminders about best practices for handling devices, such as keeping screens clean, preventing drops, and managing battery health. Involving students in the campaign, perhaps by creating videos or designing materials, can make the message even more impactful, reinforcing the idea that everyone plays a role in maintaining a sustainable technological environment.
2. Technical experts
Engaging a student-led technology team (“tech experts,” if you will) can be a smart and cost-effective way for schools to manage technical support while empowering students with real-world skills. By helping with device repair, software troubleshooting, and basic maintenance, schools can reduce the workload of their professional IT staff and foster a sense of responsibility and achievement in students.
To be successful, it is essential to have a structured program that is included in the curriculum or incorporated into your school's career and technical education (CTE) program. Offering a Cisco technical certification or partnering with local community colleges for dual credit are also great incentives for students to participate.
Knowledge and skill levels will vary, so start with a selection test to check aptitude, as some students may be better suited to managing the logistics of ticketing and project tracking than working on repairs and software upgrades.
With clear guidance, training sessions and mentoring from IT staff, student technology teams are a mutually beneficial way to help address everyday issues and help ensure a more seamless and sustainable technology environment for the entire school community.
<h2 id="3-tech-teamwork-3″>3. Technological teamwork
Appointing a dedicated committee to manage digital devices in schools is crucial to ensuring these valuable tools are used effectively, properly maintained, and available to all students.
A committee made up of key stakeholders, such as teachers, librarians, IT staff, administrators, parents, school board members, and student representatives, can provide diverse perspectives. The committee can create comprehensive plans to handle device management, understand classroom-level needs, establish guidelines for responsible use, and organize regularly scheduled maintenance reviews and software updates.
By meeting quarterly, this group can help schools stay ahead of evolving technology needs, secure funding for future purchases, and establish best practices for integrating devices into the curriculum. By appointing a dedicated committee, schools not only protect their investment but also create a collaborative environment that prioritizes effective and sustainable digital learning.
4. Invest in asset management software
He <a target="_blank" data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://follettsoftware.com/technology-suite/destiny-resource-manager/?utm_campaign=CY24-Q4-Brand-Op-ed&utm_source=SWPR&utm_medium=public-relations&utm_content=modernize-library” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow” data-url=”https://follettsoftware.com/technology-suite/destiny-resource-manager/?utm_campaign=CY24-Q4-Brand-Op-ed&utm_source=SWPR&utm_medium=public-relations&utm_content=modernize-library” referrerpolicy=”no-referrer-when-downgrade” data-hl-processed=”none”>suitable asset management software provides real-time location tracking, status, and detailed device inventories, doing the heavy lifting and ensuring the entire team knows what resources are in each building. This software also helps districts reduce surplus and accurately forecast future purchasing needs, as well as stay on top of maintenance, flagging devices for repair before they become unusable. You can also make the most of limited budgets by tracking device depreciation, warranties, and licensing information.
Asset management systems can also play an important role in tracking software usage in a school district, monitoring how frequently specific programs and applications are accessed. It gives administrators a clear picture of what software is being underused or heavily relied upon, allowing them to make data-driven decisions about future technology needs.
By adopting a 1:1 digital device program, schools have a unique opportunity to prepare students for a digitally driven world. However, it is not enough to provide devices; Successful implementation requires ongoing planning and support. When managed intelligently, 1:1 devices can provide students with a personalized, enriched learning experience, allowing them to develop critical skills, close learning gaps, and engage more deeply in their education, setting them up for success in a connected world. .
- Phil Hintz is the Director of technology for the Niles Township School District in Chicago, IL.
- Carl Hooker is an educator, speaker, consultant, author, entrepreneur, and podcaster.
- Shad McGaha is the Director of technology for Belton ISD in Belton, TX.
- Eva Mendoza is the director of information technology for San Antonio ISD.
