Bring Your Own Technology is the new normal in education. Increasingly, school districts are facing severely constrained budgets while simultaneously looking for ways to leverage digital technologies to enhance and support learning. Allowing students to bring their own mobile device to school will cultivate new learning environments that are collaborative, mobile and personalized.
At Mind Shift, we have extensive experience in building a BYOT initiative. Our work has taught us that launching a BYOT program is about more than simply choosing a device or adding a wireless network to a classroom. Comprehensive professional development, communicating with key stakeholders and creating robust support structures are integral pieces of this rather large puzzle.
By leveraging experts with knowledge in these areas, districts can move forward in a deliberate and proven way that will enrich the learning experience for teachers and students leveraging and maximizing technology.
Successful BYOT Framework Implementation
Assessment - phycial infrastructure and human capital
Visioning - what will learning look like in the district
Planning - build customized plan for district that include the following:
Human capital recommendations - recommend staffing supports for coaching and training
Professional Development - comprehensive plan based on assessment and vision
Infrastructure Upgrades (if necessary) - ensure adequate infrastructure support
Support System Construction - student support framework, forums for parents, students and teachers
Equity Plan - build strategy for equity
Communication Plan - build communication plan for BYOT
Mind Shift Plan - ensuring continued growth occurs for students and staff members