October 14th, I met with 52 parents and students at Valley View Middle School, where I presented our plan for year 2 of our "Go Wireless" laptop learning pilot. I've written before about our initiative and the ups and downs we have incurred, and as we move in to year two of the pilot we are looking at a "Bring Your Own Laptop" model.
During our question and answer session, one of the parents brought up the important question of equity and whether we were creating a situation of "haves" and "have nots" by allowing students to bring personal devices to school. The district has provided laptop carts in each building for staff to check out to use with their students. In addition, a set of netbook carts has been purchased so that students could check them out overnight using our library catalog system. We've created a Website for staff, students and parents to purchase equipment at a discount, and we are also looking at possible funding sources to create grants for those who may have a financial need to cover all or part of the cost.
Go Wireless Update: Bring Your Own Laptop at Valley View on Prezi
I shared details from our Frequently Asked Questions document, discussed what they could and should use the laptop for, and their responsibilities. After assisting students with connecting to the network, I had them complete a short survey to gather some data on their hopes and dreams for using their personal laptop at school. Parents and students asked some great questions about when they could use the laptop, whether they could charge it in classrooms if need be, and whether they can use their laptop at home for Facebook or G-mail? (That's up to your parents!) Below are some of the comments students shared on the survey:
After students and parents turned in their Personal Use of Technology Form, they received a sticker indicating that they were "Wireless Certified."
During our question and answer session, one of the parents brought up the important question of equity and whether we were creating a situation of "haves" and "have nots" by allowing students to bring personal devices to school. The district has provided laptop carts in each building for staff to check out to use with their students. In addition, a set of netbook carts has been purchased so that students could check them out overnight using our library catalog system. We've created a Website for staff, students and parents to purchase equipment at a discount, and we are also looking at possible funding sources to create grants for those who may have a financial need to cover all or part of the cost.
After our teacher convention break, students who attended the training will be brining their laptop to assist in their learning. I look forward to learning along with them!
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