Journal 8: Choosing the Perfect Tools for One to One

Citation: Bouterse, Brian (2009/08). Choosing the Perfect Tools for One-to-One. Learning and Leading with Technology, 1, Retrieved 08/07/2009, from
http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/Current_Issue/L_L_August.htm

Summary:
This article talks about the need to choose the correct computing device to meet the demands of teachers and students. It tells of the considerations one must make in choosing the appropriate hardware to use in a classroom setting. These considerations are related to purpose, operating system(OS),applications, content, peripheral equipment, and robustness (durability). All of these considerations take into account the way the device is to be used, and the amount of people that will be using it. Using these 6 considerations, the author of the article then assesses 7 common tools in a classroom and compares them against each other. The author then states that to judge the overall cost of a device one must not look at the initial price, but to the total cost of ownership. This simply means to look at the overall value the device can bring to a classroom, rather than the initial price tag itself.

Is it really necessary for schools to judge devices on the criteria stated in the article?
Yes!. These criteria help to judge the value a device may bring to the teacher and also to the students. It helps to gauge what the total effectiveness of a device may be to a classroom, in terms of access, durability, software, peripherals, etc.

Is a one to one learning initiative feasible for all schools?
Obviously not. This is due to the difference in funding for each district and school. But, this is something that all schools should strive to enact. It will benefit all students in learning subject matter, and having experience with different tools and technology that they will use throughout their lives.