BYOD Buzz
Is BYOD the Solution for Your District?
Bring Your Own Device is Gaining Ground in Every Area
More recently, schools across the nation have been embracing BYOD initiatives as a way to combat technology costs while still enhancing classroom instruction. Policies to address administrator and teacher concerns continue to be hammered out. Some have been surprised to learn that, while this seemingly is a departure from what students will find in the real world, business precedents are being set that encourage employees to bring their own device to work as well. This Techrader article does a good job of explaining the pros and cons.
Big corporations are taking note of the trend and responding proactively. For example, Google has recently completed the purchase of Divide, a software company focusing on the BYOD to Work model. Divide addresses issues such as platform diversity and internet security.
Naysayers continue to decry the benefits and spin statistics to say that the workforce is not embracing BYOD wholeheartedly. Network World offers a comprehensive roundup of current statistics and issues.
BYOD Changes Instruction and Outcomes
Changing Perspectives
The first and most obvious obstacle is to reverse the notion that cell phones in class are forbidden. Students have become so accustomed to using their devices surreptitiously that they frequently continue to hide them to prevent having them taken up by the teacher. The new policy represents such a drastic change in thinking that it takes awhile for adjustments to be made.
The best method of overcoming this obstacle is through teacher preparation. Once teachers feel comfortable in using devices for instruction, the old habits fade quickly.
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Where is the "Good" Stuff?
The second issue crops up when teachers consider replacing, or even just augmenting, their beloved textbooks. Again, professional development can help here. While it is true that some apps are without merit, there are enough examples to support the notion that stagnant textbooks are becoming a thing of the past. Indeed, a simple Google search will reveal great apps that are in use across districts today. Here are just a few:
Apps are Better Than Textbooks
27 Apps That Have Changed My Teaching and Learning
A Treasure Trove of Digital Citizenship Resources for Teachers
How Do I Keep Students from Using their Devices Inappropriately?
Teachers often express concerns that they will be held responsible for students abusing their BYOD privileges in one way or another. Similarly, they worry the devices will be a distraction, or worse, used for students to cheat. Great lessons that keep students engaged is the best way to keep students on task. Utilizing testing resources that protect student answers helps as well.
In reality, schools who implement BYOD policies learn quickly that classroom management and discipline have not changed significantly since before BYOD. With established norms and protocols still in effect, implemented by teachers who have strong rapport with their students, personal technology devices have not been a significant disruptive force in the classroom. However, classrooms with weak classroom structures could potentially see a negative impact with the implementation of BYOD. Once again, professional development can help both groups of teachers.
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