Today, the need for technology is now more than ever, especially in schools. From virtual libraries and books to devices that support practicing coding and math skills, not only this technology enhances the student’s experience of learning. Access to the available technology can vary from the school district and demographic. The most common models of technology in schools are 1:1 computers, computer labs, and computer carts.

 What is 1:1 Computing?

1:1 computing means that every student in a school will be given their own laptop, tablet, or iPad for educational purposes. These students can keep their devices with them for the whole year or for their entire educational career at that school. The students do not require to share their devices with other students. This varies from other kinds of technology access where students either need to share the computers that the school gives or have to bring their devices from home. In 1:1 computing, tablets and iPads are the most commonly utilized devices in elementary schools, and in the case of middle schools and high schools, Chromebooks are the most common.

Benefits Of 1:1 Computing In The Classroom

As we have stated above, technology is continuously changing the way students collaborate, design, communicate, and think critically. It encourages students to understand subjects through a new outlook and enables them to explore the area of their interest, such as engineering, through the application of robotics or 3D printers.

According to the U.S Department of Education, “Technology guides students about the major structural changes that can be necessary to achieve important productivity improvements. It is utilized to support both teacher and learner; technology introduces classrooms with digital learning tools, such as personal computers and handheld devices; develops course offerings, experiences, and training materials; promotes learning 24 hours a day, seven days a week; builds 21st-century skills; boosts student engagement and motivation, and stimulates learning.”

1. Participation

Giving every student a mobile device can further ensure students that they can make the most out of their day by having unrestricted access to their device. 1:1 computing in the classroom empowers all students to cooperate and improve interaction with what they are learning. Since every student has their own device, they do not need to worry about sharing technology or fall into passive learning.

2. Independence

All they have to do is to take care of their assigned electronic devices and keep track of their work that can help them develop a sense of responsibility. With this, students can use and execute this method and mindset to other tasks, duties that will help them in the future.

3. Security

You might have heard this phrase today, “my dog destroyed my homework” or “I can’t find it”? But with technology, this component is guaranteed that students can regularly save their work, so you do not have to hear these phrases again. Keeping and storing work on a mobile device encourages students to organize their work and allows students to work on assignments anywhere.

4. Personalized 

With 1:1 devices, every student can work independently in the classroom and leads to more student engagement. One device per student enables each student to actively study and participate in the classroom.

5. Inexpensive

 According to an editorial printed by CNN, 94% of teachers spend their own money on school equipment. With devices replacing school supplies, budgets for classroom materials can reduce or even disappear. Devices not only further save money on school supplies but can assist save money on textbooks. With an introduction to e-books and online sources, students can obtain the same material, read at their own pace, and search for many books less stressful.

How students can charge their devices during the day

By implementing 1:1 in your school, you have to keep in mind how these devices will be charged completely day and night.

Often in primary and middle schools, devices are needed to stay at school and only allowed for home whenever necessary. For that purpose, having a convenient location to charge those devices overnight is necessary. Charging solutions like the SIM32 Cart, Cloud32 Chromebook Cart, or the Connect36 Cart is the ideal solution. Students can take their devices in the morning, utilize them throughout the day, and then check them back in at the end of school. The charging carts support the devices to be organized and secure when not in practice.  

In high schools, 1:1 programs enable students to have their devices with them at all times. But will the student be accountable for making sure they charge it overnight? Having a convenient location in classrooms where students can instantly connect and charge their devices is important. It enables devices to be stacked so they can save valuable Collectiv8 counter space. Many Collective8’s can also be stacked or even installed on the wall.

Having 1:1 computing technology is an interesting venture for both educators and students. Providing the educators the right tools enables their education to be concentrated on the students, and they are more likely to become facilitators using technology. Students get to discover how to use technology responsibly, and it equips them for success outside of school.