Solutions: K-12 - 1:1 Devices

Explore 1:1 Device Programs

GOAL: Improve student learning through individualized access to the internet.

DESCRIPTION: Online content and web-enabled course delivery can provide opportunities for learning beyond the traditional face-to-face course format found in many K-12 institutions. These applications can be further bolstered by providing students with their own Internet-enabled devices.

Advancements in technology and personal computing provide new opportunities for student engagement and learning. Implementing a 1:1 device program is not a light undertaking, and it requires the input and dedication of administrators, teachers, and students.

ACTIONS:

Create your 1:1 vision and leadership team: A 1:1 program is not about the devices; rather, it’s about creating an environment where all students have greater access to learning resources. Planning teams should include a diverse array of stakeholders from the school including administrators, teachers, students, and others.

Research other implementations: Many schools have implemented 1:1 device programs across the country, some more successfully than others. Seek out examples from similar districts, including those in the same community.

Assess district readiness: There are a number of factors to consider including leadership, long-term funding, staff skillsets, training/professional development, enabling or hindering policies, device purchase vs. bring-your-own-device model, Internet connection and wireless capabilities, etc.

Hire a project manager and consult with experts: Topical and technical expertise could be beneficial to the project to bring outside perspective, experience, and knowledge of how to successfully implement the program.

Create a strategic plan: The strategic plan should outline the vision, research, and readiness work completed to date, and should also include goals and objectives, communications plans, finances, hardware and infrastructure, capacity building, benchmarking, and project timelines.

Develop a financial plan: A minimum five-year financial plan should be in place when implementation begins. Short and long-term funding should be considered as devices age, need maintenance and need replacing, and bandwidth increased.

Assess infrastructure needs: 1:1 device programs require robust infrastructure to support the connectivity of hundreds or thousands of new devices. Infrastructure issues include bandwidth, connectivity and access points, data systems, data management and storage, mobile device management, security and content filtering (if applicable), tech support and maintenance, etc.

Consider a pilot: Pilot programs help to demonstrate capabilities and help to work out bugs and test various solutions.

Ensure curriculum and pedagogy embrace technology: New technology brings new ways to deliver knowledge. Curriculum directors, teachers, and students should examine and research new ways to leverage student devices in and out of the classroom.

Install collaborative and ongoing professional development: New technology and curriculum requires new and ongoing professional development for instructors. Professional development should follow a cycle of learning, discussing, testing, and adjusting until new curriculum and methods work for students.

RESPONSIBLE PARTIES:

Schools, including teachers, administrators, curriculum directors, and students; Parents and their related organizations; Outside management and consultants (as needed)

RESOURCES:

One-to-One Institute’s Project RED: http://one-to-oneinstitute.org/introducing-project-red.

Connected Nation’s Edified Initiative: http://www.connectednation.org/edified.

Ten Rules for a Successful One-to-One Classroom: https://www.weareteachers.com/10-rules-for-a-successful-one-to-one-classroom/.

Five Steps for Implementing a Successful 1:1 Environment: https://www.edutopia.org/blog/one-to-one-environment-andrew-marcinek.