904 - Mobile Device Implementation

Post date: May 10, 2016 7:52:36 PM

Right out of the gate the Tech Chicks shared a great article "Should I Download That App?" The article is on Edsurge and is a ten question checklist to focusing on Pedagogy, Best Product, and Vision. I have bookmarked the article and will be sharing it with fellow teachers. Loved that we started again talking about pedagogy first and tech second.

Super excited to hear more about Apple Classroom for iPad. Already on my list to talk with our IT department about as they manage the iPads. The tech chicks said they have not seen it yet, however, they shared information they have and how it should make using iPads in the classroom easier for teachers.

Next up was a talk about Mobile Device Management systems. This session gave me the key terms I needed to talk with my IT Department. Our district is going to look at another district that is using iPads in a more successful way due in part to the management of the devices. It goes a long way with the IT department to be able to talk with them about how the back end works. I don't have to be able to work the backend but to understand how it works and the frustrations of the IT department goes a long way.

Good insight into another way to search for apps.

Another good reminder about how important classroom management is for any type of device. We are more successful when we have a plan before we deploy devices. I feel like it is important to let students have a chance to set some of the policies in a classroom contract. The more buy-in you have with students the better the chance you will be successful.

Whether working with students or adults playtime has to be built in with any new device or app. When moving around the room don't just look at screens but engage with students. When working with teachers I also encourage them to not be afraid to let students help each other and show off new skills they have. I like the ask 3 before me startegy. Having students ask 3 other students before relying on the teacher. This is a skill that will be a life-long skill.

Have a backup plan?! Yes even before students having devices we have had to deal with a copy machine going down and not having a handout we wanted for class. This does not mean that no learning can go on for the day. We have to have a plan on what to do when the tech goes down.

Also, just because we are a 1:1 District does not mean we are on devices 100% of the time. A ton of learning goes on offline.

I'm so glad we had the Tech Chicks for a session. In my position as a District Technology Specialist, I have found this to be the most beneficial session. I have their email address on my list of go to people for help when I have questions. Because I better understand and can talk with the IT department about the struggles of working the backend for iPads the techs in my District have requested with the administration that next year I am able to work more closely with them.

Thank You for having the Tech Chicks lead this session!