A few weeks ago, I reflected on the technological changes
that we see on the horizon in the next two years and spoke about the group that
has been testing out the iPad as a potential device. The iPad continues to be an attractive
option, and I am eager (like the rest of the world) to see what the next
iteration will be, when it is released this month. After a lot of conversations about what is
the best device for each division, however, we have come to the conclusion that
the likely device (which we will announce soon) for the 1:1 program in the
upper school is the MacBook Air.
The potential advantages of the
MacBook include the speed, solid-state processing, weight, and memory The likely choice of the MacBook Air has been deeply considered for
optimum learning and durability.
The iPad is a great device, and
may be the right age-appropriate tool for lower and even middle school
students. The upper school college preparatory curriculum demands more in
creativity, writing and collaboration than the iPad or similar devices can
deliver at this time. The iPad
still also has some limitations in its compatibility with software that we use
such as Vernier software and instruments for science labs. The new MacBook Air marries the world of apps
and full Mac computing into the right tool to take 9-12 grade students to new
heights.
We've already had alumni remark
on the advantage they've found in coming from a 1:1 program and the benefits as
they start college. Already equipped and experienced in the best of
creativity, collaboration and organization, they walk into their classes with a
significant head start. That edge will stay with them in both their
remaining school years and the years beyond.
As we
develop our plans for a k-12 program in the rapidly changing space of
technology, we will likely look for some blend of devices (though we believe
there are still disadvantages to a bring-your-own device approach). The goal of the 1:1 program is to provide
common and consistently reliable operating systems in each classroom
environment. That goal includes insuring that all students have the correct
applications, and homogeneous imaging to insure the teacher will be able to
ensure that all students have a high caliber device. Too often in bring-your-own programs, the
class becomes captive to the lowest-common-denominator technology in the
room. The most effective means for
assuring that reliability is through common devices and software.
We are at an exciting phase of
development of a new technology plan that will include a major infrastructure
overhaul and an anticipated transition to becoming a 1:1 program from
kindergarten through 12th grade.
These discussions are centering on the likelihood of a blended model
that combines the iPad in lower school (a very attractive option), possibly
extending that use through 6th grade, along with a MacBook model for
7th through 12th grades.
This transformation would also likely include Promethean or Smart Boards
(through 5th or 6th grades).
Again,
while we are still assessing our opportunities and preparing the technology
plan, we will continue to communicate about the ways in which technology will
continue to enhance the outstanding academic programs at BGA.
