Now that paper-based assignments are a thing of the past, modern K–12 classrooms have grappled with integrating the right technology for digital-based education. With 71% of US students currently using laptops in the classroom, it’s important to equip students with appropriate devices and interactive software.
Below, we share our best advice to help you make the right IT investments for K-12 classrooms for an enhanced learning experience.
Every school has different technological requirements, with some demanding heavier-duty computers than others. When shopping around for the right equipment, consider factors such as storage, memory, processing power, and speed to ensure they can handle the intended applications. Durability is also crucial, as devices must withstand daily use. Schools should look for computers that can withstand spills and general wear and tear.
It’s also important to account for display size and quality. Since students and staff will spend significant time looking at their device screens, an appropriately sized, high-quality screen will do wonders for their productivity. However, ensure you strike the right balance between size and portability, as a larger screen may offer better displays but could likely prove a hassle to transport to and from the campus.
When creating a budget, consider both upfront costs and ongoing expenses such as maintenance, software licenses, device management tools, and potential replacements. While higher-end devices may have a larger initial price tag, they often require less maintenance in the long run.
If budget constraints are a concern, explore refurbished devices. Many technology vendors repair old hardware then resell it at a discount. Buying such devices allows you to save on costs while providing the quality you’re looking for. For example, the vendor Tech to School helped the Texas Trinity School District save 40% of their budget by selling them refurbished MacBooks, providing them high-quality equipment for almost half the original price.
Before purchasing devices, carefully assess their compatibility with your current curriculum and IT infrastructure. Take stock of the current software your school uses. Do your devices meet the minimum requirements to support these programs? If most classroom applications are cloud-based, then investing in high-processing power might be unnecessary. You may find that you could save money while still meeting classroom needs with devices that offer standard RAM, computing speed, and storage.
For schools that wish to support remote learning, consider mobile devices. In particular, mobile devices could be a big help to schools that rely on a learning management system, which is a platform that centralizes access to study materials, assignment submissions, and grading. With most resources now available digitally, such as textbooks, considering portable devices that support their use could also aid the student experience. For example, digital books may work best on tablets with a stylus, allowing users to highlight text and make notes straight onto the content.
To make informed decisions, explore technology options available to schools in your area. Determine the types of devices that schools in your area have invested in, and whether similar equipment could fit your classroom needs. Laptops have long been a popular choice, offering both solid processing capabilities and portability. Chromebooks currently lead the competition for their small size, affordability, and access to an expansive suite of education-based Google apps.
Tablets have also garnered popularity in recent years for their flexibility. Using the tablet’s touchscreen interface, students can easily take notes with a stylus, making digital textbooks more convenient. If you want the best of both worlds, 2-in-1 devices (also called hybrid laptops) function as both a regular laptop with a mouse and keyboard or an easy-to-use tablet. These gadgets typically come at a higher cost than the rest, though their adaptability makes them a worthwhile investment for those who have the budget and demanding workloads.
Seeking advanced IT advice? From cybersecurity to managed services, our experts at AllConnected can guide you through the IT solutions necessary for an engaged, productive workplace. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help advance your classroom environment for the digital future.