Technology+Capacity

Technology Capacity

A successful mobile learning initiative requires a thorough analysis of the capacity of the existing technological infrastructure, with careful consideration and planning for the demands of the new programme, including broadband access, hardware and software, and technical support. This analysis should include projections of demand and a review of recommendations for broadband requirements based on the number of users and bandwidth needs. Ideally, wireless connectivity should be available throughout a school campus to maximize the potential of mobile learning. The increase in usage will require additional data storage, possibly off-site. (UNESCO, p.30)

=**Choosing the Technology - School-Provided vs Bring Your Own Device**= The two options for implementing mobile learning are having the school purchase devices for student use or having students bring their own device/techologies (BYOD or BYOT). Of course, many schools also follow a combination of these programs. Younger students may not have their own mobile devices, so elementary schools often offer school-provided devices and then have students follow up with a BYOD program in high school. No matter which program you choose, the school division will still need to provide adequate broadband access and digital content. ===If you are considering a School-Provided Device program, here are some useful resources:=== Cohen, S. (2012). A 1:1 IPAD INITIATIVE -- VISION TO REALITY. Library Media Connection, 30(6), 14-16. [|__http://login.ezproxy.library.ualberta.ca/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=lih&AN=76117162&site=ehost-live&scope=site__] Our Overview of Devices page []
 * School-Provided Device Initiatives vs Bring-Your-Own-Technology Initiatives** **Information taken from UNESCO Turning on Moblie Learning in North America, p.18-23**
 * || Advantages || Disadvantages ||
 * School-Provided Device Initiatives || - most evidence of increased student achievement - increases educational equity - homogeniety of devices allows for easier instruction integration and filter control - the financial commitment may lead to sustained effort to maintain the programs || - high cost of purchasing and maintainig devices - students may be frustrated switching between personal and school devices and this can affect student buy-in - increased risk of damage, loss, and theft, which is costly and time-consuming ||
 * Bring-Your- Own- Technology Initiatives || - low-cost, high-speed implementation - allows focus on instructional strategies and professional development instead of on product selection - takes advantage of technologies studets already have and are already familiar with - instead of spending funds on technical support, money can be directed towards increasing broadband, digital content, and professional development - many parents support this type of program || - issues of equity are a major concern - high demands on infrastructure and broadband connections - more time required for students and teachers to learn how to best use a variety of tools for educational purposes ||

If you are considering a Bring-Your-Own Device program, here are some useful resources:
[|Alberta Education's Bring Your Own Device: A Guide for Schools] [|7 Myths about BYOD Debunked]