Device In Classroom
Are "Bring Your Own Device" Programs Effective in Classrooms?
Michelle A. Peterson
Western Governors University
000346643
Are "Bring Your Own Device" Programs Effective in Classrooms?
The world around us is changing every day. Technology grows exponentially, which makes it virtually impossible to keep up with the rapid changes. No longer do students carry pens, pencils and folders. Gone are the days of making numerous trips to the library and using a card catalog to find books that most likely have outdated information for researching topics. We now live in a digital world. Information is now at our fingertips. Everywhere you look people have smartphones, laptops, iPads and/or Kindles. These tools are great …show more content…
resources for gaining up-to-date facts about any topic. Technology has been used for years within the work place and this has now opened the door for “Bring Your Own Device/Technology” programs within schools. Even printed textbooks are becoming a thing of the past. Students can now download information within a matter of seconds. These materials are current and convenient for both students and teachers. Research suggests that with proper precautions, Bring Your Own Device Programs can be effective in schools because they can broaden the students’ information base, increase time spent on task and allow students to work at their own pace.
You can walk into any coffee shop or restaurant today and see many people working on various technological devices. In this digital era, more and more people are choosing other forms of communication rather than the use of paper and pencil (Creative, 2013, p. 3). Schools around the country and even the world have taken notice of the evolution of technology. Some students may never learn cursive handwriting and no longer write letters. Through technology, it is possible for students to not only view the history making hunt for Osama Bin Laden but to actually communicate with people who were a witness to it. This is the equivalent to reading about Osama Bin Laden and practically being a part of the astonishing event. Accordingly, their knowledge base has been transformed dramatically. Technology has taken over. For much of our population, instant messaging and texting have replaced the traditional ways of communication, especially for our youth.
There are many advantages for schools that embrace the digital world. Students are so accustomed to texting that their typing skills are able to help them take notes faster. When students are able to save work to a digital device or flash drive, the likelihood of losing homework is minimal. The phrase “The dog ate my homework”, no longer applies. Information in digital devices can be changed into charts, tables or even graphs. Making changes to homework can be done faster on these devices. Many students still carry book bags that weigh in excess of 20 pounds (Creative, 2013, p. 3). Having “Bring Your Own Device” programs can also eliminate this need.
For a school to be efficient with the “Bring Your Own Device” program many components must be set in place.
A pioneer in the “Bring Your Own Device” program is Forsyth County Schools based in Cummings, Georgia. In 2010 the district researched and implemented a technology pilot program with seven schools participating. (Boulton, 2013, p. 1) Students within the district have been able to effectively research information for various tasks with the aid of technology devices within the classroom. Having technology in the classroom has given students a chance to become independent while still under the supervision of a teacher. The school district found that test scores boosted significantly once the “Bring Your Own Device” program was implemented. This was due to students being engaged in the learning process. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has allowed students to expand their information base by being able to obtain current information on any given topic. Students are able to sit in their desk and with the push of a button be instantly connected to the internet. By allowing the “Bring Your Own Device” program in the Forsyth County Schools, students have expanded their knowledge of a multitude of topics. These students do not waste valuable time by researching outdated material. Students are able to do many things with the technology including, but not limited to, understand the steps of the research process, determine the extent of needed information, access the …show more content…
needed information, effectively and efficiently, evaluate sources according to credibility and relevance and develop appropriate strategies for selecting search terms. Teachers found that once the students were able to work on their own devices that learning became fun for them. As of today, more than twenty schools within the Forsyth County School district allow devices in the classroom ("Scholastic" 2010, p. 1). Bailey Mitchell, CIO of the school district says that by allowing students to bring their own tablets, laptops or smartphones, it helps them gain access to information more quickly and learn collaboration skills (Boulton, 2013, para. 1). Mr. Mitchell said that students have been able to expand on the information needed for certain tasks due to having technology within the classroom. To avoid security conflicts with data, a separate network has been set up in this district for student use. The district also created an acceptable use policy that students must sign in order to participate. Students are held responsible for all maintenance on their devices.
Many school districts are still not aware of how the “Bring Your Own Device” programs work. Based on research from Concordia University, “Bring Your Own Device” programs can be effective in schools that have specific policies in place for acceptable use within the classroom ("Concordia University," 2013, p. 1). According to research, students who are allowed to have technology devices in the classroom are motivated to become information literacy competent. Lessons that consist of lectures and demonstration, followed by hands-on exercises will reinforce concepts and skills taught earlier. These instructional methods are appropriate because information competence is best learned and enhanced by “doing”. Students working with devices are given the opportunity to try techniques that focus of life-learning skills that will be transferable from one profession to another.
There are many social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, that need to be banned because serious conflict can occur. Consequences of using unacceptable sites should be made clear because some tech-savvy students may likely find ways to gain access. Monitoring systems capture computer and network misuse by monitoring and blocking access. By doing this, students and staff alike are safeguarded against cyberbullying, inappropriate content and images, sexual predators, hacking and off-tasking. It provides safe online environment for all involved as well as transforms and manages student behavior. Monitoring needed, include but is not limited to the following: identifies issues, detects offline use, encourages acceptable use, allows access to responsible students and identifies and corrects improper use. The most successful monitoring systems both filter and block. “Bring Your Own Device” programs have thus far been introduced in most participating districts in the eighth grade but as more and more schools begin to implement the program, younger grades will begin to join the trend. Many teachers and administrators are in favor of the “Bring Your Own Device” programs because they believe that the resource promotes greater participation in learning within the classroom ("Concordia University," 2013, para. 4). With up-to-date technology, teachers are able to more actively engage students in the learning process. Teachers have found that with technology devices in the classroom that students become more creative in their thinking. “Bring Your Own Device” programs allow students to obtain data on various topics, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Students who are engaged and eager to learn are more likely to succeed.
There are schools preparing to start the “Bring Your Own Device” program because it will allow students to learn efficiently.
In December 2013, I interviewed Sharon Anderson, principal of Semmes Elementary School, Mobile County Public School System. She shared that some students participate in Proxy Bypass which is the capability of bypassing blocking and filtering (S. Anderson, personal communication, December 14, 2013). Some sites used are studyharder.com, hidemyass.com, Kproxy.com, ultrasurf.com, psiphon.com and securetunnel.com. She discussed the Student Harassment Prevention Act which includes policy, a form for victims and procedures for investigating. The Mobile County Public School System is required to report incidents annually. All students and staff receive internet safety training. She stated that if school personnel know or should know, they have the moral duty to intervene. During an investigation, which is conducted by the security department, school system personnel attempt to determine whether or not the person making the threat has the capability of carrying out the threat. They look at descriptive detail, with more detail indicating more capability. Based on the research of Mrs. Anderson she believes that the “Bring Your Own Device” program can be effective because data suggests that students who are part of this program have increased test scores and can become creative in their learning. Mrs. Anderson believes that the “Bring Your Own Device”
program will be effective because students will gain greater access to data and broaden their information base. Semmes Elementary School is in the process of participating in the Bring Your Own Device program for the 2015-2016 school year. At this time school wide wireless capability is not available and staff and students have not been adequately trained. Given the current timeline, implementation should occur August 2015 beginning with 5th grade and working back until all grade levels are participating.
There are numerous pros and cons to students using technology in the classroom. In July 2012, The National Education Association debated if schools should embrace “Bring Your Own Device” programs. These programs have been piloted in many states including Ohio, Georgia, Texas and Minnesota, to name a few. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has been very successful thus far according to Shelly Gould Brugess, a physics teacher in Avon Lake, Ohio (Chadband, 2012, p. 1).The school made available a range of electronic databases mainly through the Cyber Library, which functions as a comprehensive virtual library, supplementing the school’s physical library. This provides access to full-text databases, links to various websites, electronic books and guides for research. Students are able to perform this research in an attentive manner, and it helps them interact with the world of technology. The school district brought in a technology director to train teachers in the use of various types of hand held devices. The students in Ms. Burgess’s class are now able to listen to podcast lectures to help with homework as well as increase knowledge for any topic that students would need information about. In her classroom they can begin to update work on their physics problems with their hand held devices. Information is readily available to her students and there is no excuse for simply doing nothing, according to Ms. Burgess. Students have been able to expand their information base with the help of technology students are able to obtain data from the internet with just the click of a mouse. The students can now easily collaborate on projects with students from other schools. They are able to work on homework, projects and other various tasks at their own pace. If students are not able to finish a task in class they are able to take the device home to complete the work. This allows freedom among the students to not feel rushed within the classroom or library when working. Students are able to track their own progress using data thorough the learning management system.
To have an effective “Bring Your Own Device” program, districts must determine the advantages and disadvantages for the students and teachers. In 2013, Arlington Independent School District, based in Arlington, Texas decided to pilot the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Based on research provided, the school district concluded that it is beneficial to students to have hand held technology. Students were taught how to use clues from website addresses such as .com for commercial, .gov for government, etc, for initial filtering. Students were then capable of determining the credibility and reliability of different websites. They also learned that being critical is the key in searching the web. Access to the internet for students magnifies the amount of information that students will need on a daily basis in the classroom. That information would not be available if the student was solely dependent upon the library. Learning resources within a library become out dated very fast. By allowing technology in the classroom, students are given the opportunity to be creative and/or innovative. Teachers allow students to choose how they want to demonstrate what they have learned, which goes beyond just marking answers on a test or essay writing. Information has been expanded by allowing technology devices in the classroom. Students now have the capability to move into the 21st century through the expansion of technology within the classrooms. The Arlington Independent School District has a strategic plan called Achieve Today, Excel Tomorrow. The goal is to be a high performing, technology school district. By implementing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, this district is well on its way to achieving that goal ("Arlington Independent School District," 2013, p. 1).
School leaders need to thoroughly gather all information and data in order to pursue an effective technology program. Another school district that researched and implemented the “Bring Your Own Device” program is the Warwick District in Lititz, Pennsylvania. ("Warwick School District," 2011, p. 1). The superintendent, along with the school board determined that a “Bring Your Own Device” program would be beneficial to both students and teachers as long as certain precautions were set in place to protect all involved in the program. After much research, the superintendent felt that by offering the “Bring Your Own Device” program students would be able to deepen their information base on any given subject. Students are now able to access the web during class lectures and hands on instruction. This has opened a whole new level of learning for the students. The school district has been able to provide students with a greater access to learning while safeguarding them from inappropriate use of the devices. Students have even been able to attend virtual field trips using the hand held devices. By attending these virtual field trips, less time has been wasted going to and from a particular location for learning. This leaves more time for the students to spend on the given tasks. By allowing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, students have opened a greater spectrum of information and knowledge.
In May 2013, David Raths with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution conducted research and prepared an article entitled “Schools Share Essential Tips and Tools for Collaborating in the BYOD Classroom”. The Mankato Public School director of libraries and technology, Doug Johnson says his district has implemented the “Bring Your Own Device” program within the last year (Raths, 2013, p. 1). Through Mr. Johnson’s extensive research he was able to determine that there are many applications that are available that can be used for emails, writing projects and document storage. Students have been able to learn about data organization tools that they will need in order to navigate the 21st century. The wealth of information that students are now able to obtain is limitless thorough the access of technology within the classrooms. It was determined that these applications are compatible with many different operating systems. Students have been able to interact with other students and experts in other countries through technology. By implementing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, the boundaries of learning within the classroom are broadened and students are engaged in the learning process. Based on the research, it was determined that this program is beneficial to both teachers and students.
Even schools outside the United States are beginning to implement technology programs. In the fall of 2013, Napier Girls’ High School in Napier, New Zealand, presented parents with a five page brochure detailing a “Bring Your Own Device 2014” program ("Napier Girls’ High School ," 2013, p. 1-5). The school was in an outstanding position to take learning and teaching to an advanced level. Students at Napier Girls’ High School were asked their opinions about a “Bring Your Own Device” program and they agreed that this would be a great program for their school. In the brochure, the question as to why the “Bring Your Own Device” program would be beneficial was clearly explained to parents. Napier Girls’ High School believes that every student should be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the world around them after the completion of High School. The use of technology is everywhere around us. Based on the research of the school it was determined that students who use technology perform better in school and actually enjoy the learning process. Students can now develop greater data for various topics. This research has been supported by various sources. In the brochure that Napier Girls’ High School provided they listed many advantages of the “Bring Your Own Device” program including the ability to develop digital folders, anytime access to the new library system and the enhanced communication between students, teachers and parents. Not only did educators like the idea of the “Bring Your Own Device” program but so did students. When asked, one student said, “With my own laptop I no longer have to waste half of the lesson logging on to a school computer and everything I can access at school, I can now access at home which is extremely useful for research”("Napier Girls’ High School ," 2013, p. 2). By allowing students access to the internet while in class, this allows the students to focus and increase facts on all topics assigned to them. The brochure also included a list of online services that the school would provide including Ultranet, Microsoft, and Epic to name a few. In order to make the program effective the school provided staff professional development. The school has set a plan of action for online safety for all students and this plan was presented to parents. The safety of the students is a priority for the Napier Girls’ High School.
There are countless factors for school administrators to consider before executing a “Bring Your Own Device” program. In March 2013, Matt Richtel with the New York Times wrote an article for the technology section entitled “Digitally Aided Education, Using the Students’ Own Electronic Gear”. Mr. Richtel looks at both sides of the “Bring Your Own Device’ programs to form his opinion of the program’s effectiveness in classrooms. Through research, he noted that large school districts in Houston, Texas, Atlanta, Georgia and even Central Florida are already on board with the program. Hundreds of other districts are now in the research and development stages. The Volusia County School District in Central, Florida has twenty one out of seventy schools already implementing the technology program and more will be added over the next few years. Volusia County officials realized through research that they should take advantage of, rather than fight students’ connections with their devices (Richtel, 2013, p. 2). By allowing students to use technology in the classroom, the level of learning has expanded tremendously. The district also found that maintaining and providing computers was very expensive. By implementing a program in which the students bring their own devices, the school was able to save money for other programs within the district. Schools are able to use technology for both formative and summative assessments. Students are more involved in the learning process because technology allows vast amounts of information at the click of a button. Students are able to spend as little or as much time needed on individual assignments. Based in research within Volusia County, it was noted that test scores exceled once the “Bring Your Own Device” program was implemented. Teachers and administrators believe that by having devices on hand to use in the classroom has opened up a whole new world of learning. Time is no longer wasted in libraries. Students can now access information through a virtual library that always has current facts available. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has the momentum to excel across the country. According to the article, some are still not convinced that programs of this type will work. Mr. Roy Pea, a professor of learning sciences at Stanford University has his doubts. In 2011 he was the co-author of a White House National Educational Technology Plan that advocates for technology-centric classrooms (Richtel, 2013, p. 2). Mr. Pea believes that it could be counterproductive for students to use technology in the classroom if the teachers are forced to adjust lesson plans around different forms of devices. He presents the argument that just a few years ago technology devices, such as smart phones were banned from schools and classrooms and now administrators are actually requesting these same devices. Although, Mr. Pea does bring up some valid points, the research available to date still leads one to believe that technology in the classroom is productive. Of course, with any new program in a school, there will be problems that need solutions. Only time will tell just how effective “Bring Your Own Device” programs will be.
To have an effective “Bring Your Own Device” program, school officials must determine if the program will be beneficial in the learning process for students or more of a distraction that could potentially cause chaos in the classroom. In June of 2013, Ms. Kendall Bird, a marketing specialist with Rasmussen College researched and wrote an article entitled “BYOD: A New Classroom Trend or a Passing Fad”?
Ms. Bird first answered the question: What is a “Bring Your Own Device” Program. She explained that a technology revolution is upon us and that many educators are now choosing these programs to help students stay ahead of the learning curve. Ms. Bird listed some available technology devices for students including but not limited to EBook readers, tablets and smartphones. Ms. Bird explored the advantages of the “Bring Your Own Device” trend. According to Joni Kuhn, a developmental education instructor with Rasmussen College, “Teachers must use technology in the classroom or their students will suffer academically” (Bird, 2013, p. 2). “Children are spending more time on screens than ever before,” said Cecelia Westby, dean of the School of Education at Rasmussen College. “We use technology intentionally to promote a child’s growth and development and as part of the curriculum” (Bird, 2013, p. 2). Ms. Bird referenced research from Concordia University that found if technology is used in the classroom as part of the everyday curriculum students are more engaged in the material presented to them and the chances of their success are greater. Students are able to retrieve a magnitude of data and information while sitting in class. This allows students to stay focused on the task at hand. Even young students are able to navigate hand held devices to work with educational games which include math, reading and science lessons. When media and technology are used appropriately, it supports the development and learning of younger students, according to The National Association for the Education of Young Children (Bird, 2013, p. 2). Ms. Bird did however find some concerns about the “Bring Your Own Device” program within the classrooms. These include the technology shortages and the debate if young students should even be allowed to participate. Some opponents of the “Bring Your Own Device” programs are concerned that the programs are not securely monitored. Before implementing this program, school district leaders must be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. School districts need to have a plan of action in place if and when a problem arises. In her research, Ms. Bird believes that there are advantages and disadvantages to the “Bring Your Own Device” program and she says that because this is such a relatively new trend that evidence is somewhat lacking either way (Bird, 2013, p. 3). In time, with more school districts implementing technology programs, more research will be available. There are valid advantages to having technology available to students in the classroom. In 2011, Dr. Steve Broskoske, assistant professor in the Teacher Education Department of Misericordia University, conducted research on technology devices in secondary education. Dr. Broskoske presented a Power Point presentation based on his research (Broskoske, 2011, p. 3). He determined several benefits of the “Bring Your Own Device Program” such as having up- to-date information at the touch of a button and increasing the tools available for student use. By students having access to hand held devices in the classroom, the information base has been expanded and there are no limitations, unlike the use of libraries and out dated books. Many teachers talk about moving away from teaching standard curriculum in the all too familiar ways, such as lectures, independent seat work and class discussions. Computers are the catalyst for supporting 21st century skills, including problem solving, creativity, critical thinking and communication. On the flip side, there are disadvantages to establishing technology programs within classrooms. Dr. Broskoske presents some challenges associated with the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Classroom management may become difficult for teachers. New rules have to be implemented among teachers. All students will not use the same type of device, so many different applications will be used. This will be a challenge for teachers to integrate lesson places into Word programs, Power Point, etc. Tech-savvy students will also find new, creative ways to cheat.
Dr. Broskoske gives the current state of the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Little research exists and even less when it comes to the classroom management. Based on the research available, the information available through hand held devices is valuable to students. The use of the internet in the classroom for information gathering is crucial for students to compete in the 21st century. According to Dr. Broskoske, more research will become available as more schools and administrators implement this growing trend among their districts. Based on current research regarding the growing trend of “Bring Your Own Device” programs, findings do suggest that technology in classrooms can be effective in schools. Mobile devices are transforming the way students learn and the way teachers teach. As students mature and grow, they begin to take on more responsibility for their own learning. Teachers can help students who become distracted by their devices to make better choices, making the use of such devices more effective. We are living in the ever connected 21st century. I am enthusiastic at the prospect of students being plugged in while in the classroom. In years to come the possibility is great that technology devices will be added to school supply lists just as pens, pencils and paper have been for a very long time. In order for technology programs to work effectively all parties, including students, teachers, administrators and parents have to be on board and embrace the implementation. Schools should adopt policies allowing students to bring in and use their own technology devices such as phones, laptops and tablets. As students discover how to learn with their devices, they are able to extend their learning beyond the four walls of their classroom and often choose to continue participating in online discussions for academic purposes. Students get excited about learning when engaged in technology. Educators must expose students to internet tools beyond social networks that they are already using while at the same time protecting them. Students must be taught there is more to life than Facebook. Companies are already using technology and these students will be part of the work force and will need the skills to be effective. It is my belief, based on the research of this growing trend, that more and more school districts will begin to embrace the “Bring Your Own Device” programs. Information is every changing and the internet is the access in which students can gain knowledge. Technology is not going away but becoming more essential every day. Parents and educators need to instill the knowledge into our children before they graduate and enter the working world of technology.
References
BYOD in School? (2010). Retrieved from http://www.scholastic.com/browse/artice.jsp?id=3756757
BYOD-Technology. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.warwicksd.org/website.orgmodule.php?deptid=114&schoolid=0007&mid=1429
Bird, K. (2013). BYOD: A New Classroom Trend or a Passing Fad? Retrieved from http://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/education/blog/byod-new-classroom-trend-passing-fad/
Boulton, C. (2013). Back to School with BYOD. Retrieved from http://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2013/08/10/back-to-school-with-byod/
Bring Your Own Technology. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.aisd.net.byot/
Broskoske, D. (2011). BYOT and Classroom Management in Secondary Education . Retrieved from www.docstoc.com/docs/139297329/BYOD-and-classroom-management-in-sec-ed---Misericordia
Chadband, E. (2012). Should Schools Embrace “Bring Your Own Device”? Retrieved from http://neatoday.org/2012/07/19/should-schools-embrace-bring-your-own-devce
Creative, M. (2013). Schools increasingly turn to mobile devices in classrooms. Retrieved from http://specialsections.suntimes.com/education/prek12/7931047-555-pros-and-cons-to-learning-in-a-digital-age.html
Introducing Bring Your Own Device 2014 . (2013). Retrieved from www.nghs.school.nz/page/flyer-bring-your-own-device-2014.pdf
Raths, D. (2013). Schools Share Essential Tip and Tools for Collaborating in the BYOD Classroom . Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/articles/2013/05/30/schools-share-tips-and-tools-for-collaborating-in-the-byod-classroom.aspx
Richtel, M. (2013). Digially Aided Education, Using the Students’ Own Electronic Gear. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/23/technology/in-some-schools-students-bring-their-own-technology.html?_n=0
What is BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and Why Should Teachers Care? (2013). Retrieved from http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/tech-ed/what-is-byod-bring-your-own-device-and-why-should-teachers-care/
Michelle A. Peterson
Western Governors University
000346643
Are "Bring Your Own Device" Programs Effective in Classrooms?
The world around us is changing every day. Technology grows exponentially, which makes it virtually impossible to keep up with the rapid changes. No longer do students carry pens, pencils and folders. Gone are the days of making numerous trips to the library and using a card catalog to find books that most likely have outdated information for researching topics. We now live in a digital world. Information is now at our fingertips. Everywhere you look people have smartphones, laptops, iPads and/or Kindles. These tools are great …show more content…
resources for gaining up-to-date facts about any topic. Technology has been used for years within the work place and this has now opened the door for “Bring Your Own Device/Technology” programs within schools. Even printed textbooks are becoming a thing of the past. Students can now download information within a matter of seconds. These materials are current and convenient for both students and teachers. Research suggests that with proper precautions, Bring Your Own Device Programs can be effective in schools because they can broaden the students’ information base, increase time spent on task and allow students to work at their own pace.
You can walk into any coffee shop or restaurant today and see many people working on various technological devices. In this digital era, more and more people are choosing other forms of communication rather than the use of paper and pencil (Creative, 2013, p. 3). Schools around the country and even the world have taken notice of the evolution of technology. Some students may never learn cursive handwriting and no longer write letters. Through technology, it is possible for students to not only view the history making hunt for Osama Bin Laden but to actually communicate with people who were a witness to it. This is the equivalent to reading about Osama Bin Laden and practically being a part of the astonishing event. Accordingly, their knowledge base has been transformed dramatically. Technology has taken over. For much of our population, instant messaging and texting have replaced the traditional ways of communication, especially for our youth.
There are many advantages for schools that embrace the digital world. Students are so accustomed to texting that their typing skills are able to help them take notes faster. When students are able to save work to a digital device or flash drive, the likelihood of losing homework is minimal. The phrase “The dog ate my homework”, no longer applies. Information in digital devices can be changed into charts, tables or even graphs. Making changes to homework can be done faster on these devices. Many students still carry book bags that weigh in excess of 20 pounds (Creative, 2013, p. 3). Having “Bring Your Own Device” programs can also eliminate this need.
For a school to be efficient with the “Bring Your Own Device” program many components must be set in place.
A pioneer in the “Bring Your Own Device” program is Forsyth County Schools based in Cummings, Georgia. In 2010 the district researched and implemented a technology pilot program with seven schools participating. (Boulton, 2013, p. 1) Students within the district have been able to effectively research information for various tasks with the aid of technology devices within the classroom. Having technology in the classroom has given students a chance to become independent while still under the supervision of a teacher. The school district found that test scores boosted significantly once the “Bring Your Own Device” program was implemented. This was due to students being engaged in the learning process. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has allowed students to expand their information base by being able to obtain current information on any given topic. Students are able to sit in their desk and with the push of a button be instantly connected to the internet. By allowing the “Bring Your Own Device” program in the Forsyth County Schools, students have expanded their knowledge of a multitude of topics. These students do not waste valuable time by researching outdated material. Students are able to do many things with the technology including, but not limited to, understand the steps of the research process, determine the extent of needed information, access the …show more content…
needed information, effectively and efficiently, evaluate sources according to credibility and relevance and develop appropriate strategies for selecting search terms. Teachers found that once the students were able to work on their own devices that learning became fun for them. As of today, more than twenty schools within the Forsyth County School district allow devices in the classroom ("Scholastic" 2010, p. 1). Bailey Mitchell, CIO of the school district says that by allowing students to bring their own tablets, laptops or smartphones, it helps them gain access to information more quickly and learn collaboration skills (Boulton, 2013, para. 1). Mr. Mitchell said that students have been able to expand on the information needed for certain tasks due to having technology within the classroom. To avoid security conflicts with data, a separate network has been set up in this district for student use. The district also created an acceptable use policy that students must sign in order to participate. Students are held responsible for all maintenance on their devices.
Many school districts are still not aware of how the “Bring Your Own Device” programs work. Based on research from Concordia University, “Bring Your Own Device” programs can be effective in schools that have specific policies in place for acceptable use within the classroom ("Concordia University," 2013, p. 1). According to research, students who are allowed to have technology devices in the classroom are motivated to become information literacy competent. Lessons that consist of lectures and demonstration, followed by hands-on exercises will reinforce concepts and skills taught earlier. These instructional methods are appropriate because information competence is best learned and enhanced by “doing”. Students working with devices are given the opportunity to try techniques that focus of life-learning skills that will be transferable from one profession to another.
There are many social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, that need to be banned because serious conflict can occur. Consequences of using unacceptable sites should be made clear because some tech-savvy students may likely find ways to gain access. Monitoring systems capture computer and network misuse by monitoring and blocking access. By doing this, students and staff alike are safeguarded against cyberbullying, inappropriate content and images, sexual predators, hacking and off-tasking. It provides safe online environment for all involved as well as transforms and manages student behavior. Monitoring needed, include but is not limited to the following: identifies issues, detects offline use, encourages acceptable use, allows access to responsible students and identifies and corrects improper use. The most successful monitoring systems both filter and block. “Bring Your Own Device” programs have thus far been introduced in most participating districts in the eighth grade but as more and more schools begin to implement the program, younger grades will begin to join the trend. Many teachers and administrators are in favor of the “Bring Your Own Device” programs because they believe that the resource promotes greater participation in learning within the classroom ("Concordia University," 2013, para. 4). With up-to-date technology, teachers are able to more actively engage students in the learning process. Teachers have found that with technology devices in the classroom that students become more creative in their thinking. “Bring Your Own Device” programs allow students to obtain data on various topics, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Students who are engaged and eager to learn are more likely to succeed.
There are schools preparing to start the “Bring Your Own Device” program because it will allow students to learn efficiently.
In December 2013, I interviewed Sharon Anderson, principal of Semmes Elementary School, Mobile County Public School System. She shared that some students participate in Proxy Bypass which is the capability of bypassing blocking and filtering (S. Anderson, personal communication, December 14, 2013). Some sites used are studyharder.com, hidemyass.com, Kproxy.com, ultrasurf.com, psiphon.com and securetunnel.com. She discussed the Student Harassment Prevention Act which includes policy, a form for victims and procedures for investigating. The Mobile County Public School System is required to report incidents annually. All students and staff receive internet safety training. She stated that if school personnel know or should know, they have the moral duty to intervene. During an investigation, which is conducted by the security department, school system personnel attempt to determine whether or not the person making the threat has the capability of carrying out the threat. They look at descriptive detail, with more detail indicating more capability. Based on the research of Mrs. Anderson she believes that the “Bring Your Own Device” program can be effective because data suggests that students who are part of this program have increased test scores and can become creative in their learning. Mrs. Anderson believes that the “Bring Your Own Device”
program will be effective because students will gain greater access to data and broaden their information base. Semmes Elementary School is in the process of participating in the Bring Your Own Device program for the 2015-2016 school year. At this time school wide wireless capability is not available and staff and students have not been adequately trained. Given the current timeline, implementation should occur August 2015 beginning with 5th grade and working back until all grade levels are participating.
There are numerous pros and cons to students using technology in the classroom. In July 2012, The National Education Association debated if schools should embrace “Bring Your Own Device” programs. These programs have been piloted in many states including Ohio, Georgia, Texas and Minnesota, to name a few. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has been very successful thus far according to Shelly Gould Brugess, a physics teacher in Avon Lake, Ohio (Chadband, 2012, p. 1).The school made available a range of electronic databases mainly through the Cyber Library, which functions as a comprehensive virtual library, supplementing the school’s physical library. This provides access to full-text databases, links to various websites, electronic books and guides for research. Students are able to perform this research in an attentive manner, and it helps them interact with the world of technology. The school district brought in a technology director to train teachers in the use of various types of hand held devices. The students in Ms. Burgess’s class are now able to listen to podcast lectures to help with homework as well as increase knowledge for any topic that students would need information about. In her classroom they can begin to update work on their physics problems with their hand held devices. Information is readily available to her students and there is no excuse for simply doing nothing, according to Ms. Burgess. Students have been able to expand their information base with the help of technology students are able to obtain data from the internet with just the click of a mouse. The students can now easily collaborate on projects with students from other schools. They are able to work on homework, projects and other various tasks at their own pace. If students are not able to finish a task in class they are able to take the device home to complete the work. This allows freedom among the students to not feel rushed within the classroom or library when working. Students are able to track their own progress using data thorough the learning management system.
To have an effective “Bring Your Own Device” program, districts must determine the advantages and disadvantages for the students and teachers. In 2013, Arlington Independent School District, based in Arlington, Texas decided to pilot the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Based on research provided, the school district concluded that it is beneficial to students to have hand held technology. Students were taught how to use clues from website addresses such as .com for commercial, .gov for government, etc, for initial filtering. Students were then capable of determining the credibility and reliability of different websites. They also learned that being critical is the key in searching the web. Access to the internet for students magnifies the amount of information that students will need on a daily basis in the classroom. That information would not be available if the student was solely dependent upon the library. Learning resources within a library become out dated very fast. By allowing technology in the classroom, students are given the opportunity to be creative and/or innovative. Teachers allow students to choose how they want to demonstrate what they have learned, which goes beyond just marking answers on a test or essay writing. Information has been expanded by allowing technology devices in the classroom. Students now have the capability to move into the 21st century through the expansion of technology within the classrooms. The Arlington Independent School District has a strategic plan called Achieve Today, Excel Tomorrow. The goal is to be a high performing, technology school district. By implementing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, this district is well on its way to achieving that goal ("Arlington Independent School District," 2013, p. 1).
School leaders need to thoroughly gather all information and data in order to pursue an effective technology program. Another school district that researched and implemented the “Bring Your Own Device” program is the Warwick District in Lititz, Pennsylvania. ("Warwick School District," 2011, p. 1). The superintendent, along with the school board determined that a “Bring Your Own Device” program would be beneficial to both students and teachers as long as certain precautions were set in place to protect all involved in the program. After much research, the superintendent felt that by offering the “Bring Your Own Device” program students would be able to deepen their information base on any given subject. Students are now able to access the web during class lectures and hands on instruction. This has opened a whole new level of learning for the students. The school district has been able to provide students with a greater access to learning while safeguarding them from inappropriate use of the devices. Students have even been able to attend virtual field trips using the hand held devices. By attending these virtual field trips, less time has been wasted going to and from a particular location for learning. This leaves more time for the students to spend on the given tasks. By allowing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, students have opened a greater spectrum of information and knowledge.
In May 2013, David Raths with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution conducted research and prepared an article entitled “Schools Share Essential Tips and Tools for Collaborating in the BYOD Classroom”. The Mankato Public School director of libraries and technology, Doug Johnson says his district has implemented the “Bring Your Own Device” program within the last year (Raths, 2013, p. 1). Through Mr. Johnson’s extensive research he was able to determine that there are many applications that are available that can be used for emails, writing projects and document storage. Students have been able to learn about data organization tools that they will need in order to navigate the 21st century. The wealth of information that students are now able to obtain is limitless thorough the access of technology within the classrooms. It was determined that these applications are compatible with many different operating systems. Students have been able to interact with other students and experts in other countries through technology. By implementing the “Bring Your Own Device” program, the boundaries of learning within the classroom are broadened and students are engaged in the learning process. Based on the research, it was determined that this program is beneficial to both teachers and students.
Even schools outside the United States are beginning to implement technology programs. In the fall of 2013, Napier Girls’ High School in Napier, New Zealand, presented parents with a five page brochure detailing a “Bring Your Own Device 2014” program ("Napier Girls’ High School ," 2013, p. 1-5). The school was in an outstanding position to take learning and teaching to an advanced level. Students at Napier Girls’ High School were asked their opinions about a “Bring Your Own Device” program and they agreed that this would be a great program for their school. In the brochure, the question as to why the “Bring Your Own Device” program would be beneficial was clearly explained to parents. Napier Girls’ High School believes that every student should be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the world around them after the completion of High School. The use of technology is everywhere around us. Based on the research of the school it was determined that students who use technology perform better in school and actually enjoy the learning process. Students can now develop greater data for various topics. This research has been supported by various sources. In the brochure that Napier Girls’ High School provided they listed many advantages of the “Bring Your Own Device” program including the ability to develop digital folders, anytime access to the new library system and the enhanced communication between students, teachers and parents. Not only did educators like the idea of the “Bring Your Own Device” program but so did students. When asked, one student said, “With my own laptop I no longer have to waste half of the lesson logging on to a school computer and everything I can access at school, I can now access at home which is extremely useful for research”("Napier Girls’ High School ," 2013, p. 2). By allowing students access to the internet while in class, this allows the students to focus and increase facts on all topics assigned to them. The brochure also included a list of online services that the school would provide including Ultranet, Microsoft, and Epic to name a few. In order to make the program effective the school provided staff professional development. The school has set a plan of action for online safety for all students and this plan was presented to parents. The safety of the students is a priority for the Napier Girls’ High School.
There are countless factors for school administrators to consider before executing a “Bring Your Own Device” program. In March 2013, Matt Richtel with the New York Times wrote an article for the technology section entitled “Digitally Aided Education, Using the Students’ Own Electronic Gear”. Mr. Richtel looks at both sides of the “Bring Your Own Device’ programs to form his opinion of the program’s effectiveness in classrooms. Through research, he noted that large school districts in Houston, Texas, Atlanta, Georgia and even Central Florida are already on board with the program. Hundreds of other districts are now in the research and development stages. The Volusia County School District in Central, Florida has twenty one out of seventy schools already implementing the technology program and more will be added over the next few years. Volusia County officials realized through research that they should take advantage of, rather than fight students’ connections with their devices (Richtel, 2013, p. 2). By allowing students to use technology in the classroom, the level of learning has expanded tremendously. The district also found that maintaining and providing computers was very expensive. By implementing a program in which the students bring their own devices, the school was able to save money for other programs within the district. Schools are able to use technology for both formative and summative assessments. Students are more involved in the learning process because technology allows vast amounts of information at the click of a button. Students are able to spend as little or as much time needed on individual assignments. Based in research within Volusia County, it was noted that test scores exceled once the “Bring Your Own Device” program was implemented. Teachers and administrators believe that by having devices on hand to use in the classroom has opened up a whole new world of learning. Time is no longer wasted in libraries. Students can now access information through a virtual library that always has current facts available. The “Bring Your Own Device” program has the momentum to excel across the country. According to the article, some are still not convinced that programs of this type will work. Mr. Roy Pea, a professor of learning sciences at Stanford University has his doubts. In 2011 he was the co-author of a White House National Educational Technology Plan that advocates for technology-centric classrooms (Richtel, 2013, p. 2). Mr. Pea believes that it could be counterproductive for students to use technology in the classroom if the teachers are forced to adjust lesson plans around different forms of devices. He presents the argument that just a few years ago technology devices, such as smart phones were banned from schools and classrooms and now administrators are actually requesting these same devices. Although, Mr. Pea does bring up some valid points, the research available to date still leads one to believe that technology in the classroom is productive. Of course, with any new program in a school, there will be problems that need solutions. Only time will tell just how effective “Bring Your Own Device” programs will be.
To have an effective “Bring Your Own Device” program, school officials must determine if the program will be beneficial in the learning process for students or more of a distraction that could potentially cause chaos in the classroom. In June of 2013, Ms. Kendall Bird, a marketing specialist with Rasmussen College researched and wrote an article entitled “BYOD: A New Classroom Trend or a Passing Fad”?
Ms. Bird first answered the question: What is a “Bring Your Own Device” Program. She explained that a technology revolution is upon us and that many educators are now choosing these programs to help students stay ahead of the learning curve. Ms. Bird listed some available technology devices for students including but not limited to EBook readers, tablets and smartphones. Ms. Bird explored the advantages of the “Bring Your Own Device” trend. According to Joni Kuhn, a developmental education instructor with Rasmussen College, “Teachers must use technology in the classroom or their students will suffer academically” (Bird, 2013, p. 2). “Children are spending more time on screens than ever before,” said Cecelia Westby, dean of the School of Education at Rasmussen College. “We use technology intentionally to promote a child’s growth and development and as part of the curriculum” (Bird, 2013, p. 2). Ms. Bird referenced research from Concordia University that found if technology is used in the classroom as part of the everyday curriculum students are more engaged in the material presented to them and the chances of their success are greater. Students are able to retrieve a magnitude of data and information while sitting in class. This allows students to stay focused on the task at hand. Even young students are able to navigate hand held devices to work with educational games which include math, reading and science lessons. When media and technology are used appropriately, it supports the development and learning of younger students, according to The National Association for the Education of Young Children (Bird, 2013, p. 2). Ms. Bird did however find some concerns about the “Bring Your Own Device” program within the classrooms. These include the technology shortages and the debate if young students should even be allowed to participate. Some opponents of the “Bring Your Own Device” programs are concerned that the programs are not securely monitored. Before implementing this program, school district leaders must be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. School districts need to have a plan of action in place if and when a problem arises. In her research, Ms. Bird believes that there are advantages and disadvantages to the “Bring Your Own Device” program and she says that because this is such a relatively new trend that evidence is somewhat lacking either way (Bird, 2013, p. 3). In time, with more school districts implementing technology programs, more research will be available. There are valid advantages to having technology available to students in the classroom. In 2011, Dr. Steve Broskoske, assistant professor in the Teacher Education Department of Misericordia University, conducted research on technology devices in secondary education. Dr. Broskoske presented a Power Point presentation based on his research (Broskoske, 2011, p. 3). He determined several benefits of the “Bring Your Own Device Program” such as having up- to-date information at the touch of a button and increasing the tools available for student use. By students having access to hand held devices in the classroom, the information base has been expanded and there are no limitations, unlike the use of libraries and out dated books. Many teachers talk about moving away from teaching standard curriculum in the all too familiar ways, such as lectures, independent seat work and class discussions. Computers are the catalyst for supporting 21st century skills, including problem solving, creativity, critical thinking and communication. On the flip side, there are disadvantages to establishing technology programs within classrooms. Dr. Broskoske presents some challenges associated with the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Classroom management may become difficult for teachers. New rules have to be implemented among teachers. All students will not use the same type of device, so many different applications will be used. This will be a challenge for teachers to integrate lesson places into Word programs, Power Point, etc. Tech-savvy students will also find new, creative ways to cheat.
Dr. Broskoske gives the current state of the “Bring Your Own Device” program. Little research exists and even less when it comes to the classroom management. Based on the research available, the information available through hand held devices is valuable to students. The use of the internet in the classroom for information gathering is crucial for students to compete in the 21st century. According to Dr. Broskoske, more research will become available as more schools and administrators implement this growing trend among their districts. Based on current research regarding the growing trend of “Bring Your Own Device” programs, findings do suggest that technology in classrooms can be effective in schools. Mobile devices are transforming the way students learn and the way teachers teach. As students mature and grow, they begin to take on more responsibility for their own learning. Teachers can help students who become distracted by their devices to make better choices, making the use of such devices more effective. We are living in the ever connected 21st century. I am enthusiastic at the prospect of students being plugged in while in the classroom. In years to come the possibility is great that technology devices will be added to school supply lists just as pens, pencils and paper have been for a very long time. In order for technology programs to work effectively all parties, including students, teachers, administrators and parents have to be on board and embrace the implementation. Schools should adopt policies allowing students to bring in and use their own technology devices such as phones, laptops and tablets. As students discover how to learn with their devices, they are able to extend their learning beyond the four walls of their classroom and often choose to continue participating in online discussions for academic purposes. Students get excited about learning when engaged in technology. Educators must expose students to internet tools beyond social networks that they are already using while at the same time protecting them. Students must be taught there is more to life than Facebook. Companies are already using technology and these students will be part of the work force and will need the skills to be effective. It is my belief, based on the research of this growing trend, that more and more school districts will begin to embrace the “Bring Your Own Device” programs. Information is every changing and the internet is the access in which students can gain knowledge. Technology is not going away but becoming more essential every day. Parents and educators need to instill the knowledge into our children before they graduate and enter the working world of technology.
References
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BYOD-Technology. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.warwicksd.org/website.orgmodule.php?deptid=114&schoolid=0007&mid=1429
Bird, K. (2013). BYOD: A New Classroom Trend or a Passing Fad? Retrieved from http://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/education/blog/byod-new-classroom-trend-passing-fad/
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Bring Your Own Technology. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.aisd.net.byot/
Broskoske, D. (2011). BYOT and Classroom Management in Secondary Education . Retrieved from www.docstoc.com/docs/139297329/BYOD-and-classroom-management-in-sec-ed---Misericordia
Chadband, E. (2012). Should Schools Embrace “Bring Your Own Device”? Retrieved from http://neatoday.org/2012/07/19/should-schools-embrace-bring-your-own-devce
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Introducing Bring Your Own Device 2014 . (2013). Retrieved from www.nghs.school.nz/page/flyer-bring-your-own-device-2014.pdf
Raths, D. (2013). Schools Share Essential Tip and Tools for Collaborating in the BYOD Classroom . Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/articles/2013/05/30/schools-share-tips-and-tools-for-collaborating-in-the-byod-classroom.aspx
Richtel, M. (2013). Digially Aided Education, Using the Students’ Own Electronic Gear. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/23/technology/in-some-schools-students-bring-their-own-technology.html?_n=0
What is BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and Why Should Teachers Care? (2013). Retrieved from http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/tech-ed/what-is-byod-bring-your-own-device-and-why-should-teachers-care/