In implementing a one-to-one initiative or other technology-intensive programs, district leaders must take into consideration infrastructure issues ranging from the choice of mobile computing devices to wireless networking and security.

COMPUTING DEVICES

Selecting computers for a 21st-century initiative goes far beyond choosing a manufacturer. Program planners need to determine student-to-computer ratios (is this a one-to-one program or will it be sufficient to have computers shared through mobile carts?), the number and uses for desktop models in the overall picture, and the sorts of mobile devices that will best suit their needs. While most one-to-one programs in years past made use of laptop computers, a number of districts today have chosen to adopt tablet PCs to allow for pen input and make it easy to annotate text and mathematical or graphical content. Still others have included ultra-light computing devices such as Intel-powered classmate PCs, geared to younger users, or other lightweight, inexpensive "netbooks."

The ideal mobile computing device for school use:

• Is both lightweight and sturdy;
• Is provided to students in a protective carrying case;
• Has several hours of battery power and easy options for recharging;
• Has wireless capabilities and appropriate software;
• Offers sufficient storage;
• Is flexible, with USB ports and other options for expansion.

In selecting such devices, a school should consider:

• Exploring the pros and cons of tablet PCs vs. standard laptop technologies;
• Implementing a battery exchange plan;
• Providing written usage guidelines and establishing security measures;
• Providing onsite docking and recharging stations;
• Planning on a three to five-year equipment life;
• Standardizing hardware and software throughout a school, district or program;
• Establishing technical specs based on project goals;
• Making software upgrades easy;
• Establishing plans for maintenance and support;
• Installing instructor workstations and management tools that permit teachers to view students’ screens during class time and make it easy for them to transmit and collect assignments wirelessly;
• Buying the best machines you can afford.

THE NETWORK

Just as important as the computing devices in use by students and teachers is the network that supports these devices. It must be:

• Stable, secure and reliable, inspiring trust on the part of users;
• Able to perform daily operations smoothly and effectively even with a large number of simultaneous users;
• Supported with ongoing professional development and maintenance;
• Easily scalable to allow for future growth—including the ability to accommodate additional computers, servers and peripherals.

Additional suggestions for building an effective network include:

• Perform stress tests on the system to make sure that it can support a sufficient number of simultaneous users;
• Test wireless signals in multiple settings and conditions;
• Negotiate effective software licensing agreements and adhere to them.

In addition to wireless access within their schools, districts need to consider what sort of access they are providing to students when they are at home or in other parts of the community. Ubiquitous computing involves anytime, anywhere, anyway access—the ability to access educational resources wherever and whenever they are needed. For the ultimate in 24/7 computing many communities are turning to WiMAX. Faster than WiFi and with a much greater range, WiMAX behaves somewhat like cellular phone or data networks, offering wide coverage throughout a community, facilitated by careful placement of tall outdoor antennas. Click here to learn more about WiMAX in education.

SUPPORT

Beyond purchasing equipment and installing the network infrastructure, IT leaders need to be prepared to support their investment. Support guidelines include:

• Allow for ongoing staff and teacher training as well as computer maintenance and support in operational budgets.
• Schedule regular communication and collaborative meetings with parents, teachers, students and support staff to address issues. Efficient problem-solving up front prevents minor issues from escalating into major problems.
• Log, track and analyze reports to determine technical weakness and be sure that needs are being met.
• Utilize students to help maintain equipment and support users. This approach challenges advanced students while reducing the load on IT staff.