iPad 1:1 Advent Tips Round Up

Twenty Four iPad 1:1 Tips that may give some pointers about Why?, What? & How?

For those that don't follow me, I instigated and led the complete iPad project at Clevedon School, North Somerset, UK. The full project incorporates 1400 1:1 iPads for all students and staff, with a planned capability to extend the WiFi and iPad scheme to support introduction at the five feeder Primary Schools, if and when they want and are ready to join, making 3000 iPads in all.

The Tips #iPadAdventTips

1st Dec: It’s not about the technology, it’s about the LEARNING.

2nd Dec: Learning needs to be engagingly creative to be ready for iPads.

3rd Dec: A didactic teacher controls learning… iPad learning frees creative pedagogy.

4th Dec: Ensure teachers don’t feel pressured to always use the device. It is another tool.

5th Dec: Technology is only fully released to support Learning when it disappears.

6th Dec: Don’t buy school iPads! iPads are personal… subsidise/facilitate ownership.

7th Dec: Models are available for finance and insurance partnerships with parents.

8th Dec: Only by placing the device in the hands of learners, does Learning become free.

9th Dec: Choose the best, not cheapest device, then plan to afford it. It can be done.

10th Dec: The Software… Apps and support EcoSystem is far more important than the device.

11th Dec: Static IT structures cannot now compete with mobile for creative learning.

12th Dec: Time to remind ourselves that it’s not about technology, it’s about Learning.

13th Dec: When you build the package for parents you must build in Key Productivity Apps.

14th Dec: Each iPad must also have a quality protective cover in the package.

15th Dec: Devices and WiFi are going to be useless without high capacity Broadband.

16th Dec: WiFi needs to be high density full site coverage… Everywhere, yes, Everywhere.

17th Dec: You need a high speed network core, cabling and switching to support your WiFi.

18th Dec: Best if the person you place as lead for eLearning TandL isn’t an IT teacher.

19th Dec: A fully modernised Acceptable Use Policy is required for the new mobile world.

20th Dec: Launch your iPad 1:1 at the start of a term to quickly establish good habits.

21st Dec: Make sure all parents know how to set up a free non credit card iTunes account.

22nd Dec: Gift key learning Apps immediately before students fill devices with games.

23rd Dec: Don’t underestimate the scale of a 1:1 programme. It releases everything.

24th Dec: “iPads in Schools: A Guide for Senior Leaders and Governors” Coming in January 2013.