Four Critical Elements to a Successful 1 to 1 Program

The implementation of a 1 to 1 computing initiative is a huge undertaking for any school district.  But many educational leaders that are focused on producing 21st Century learners believe that this type of program is vital to  maximizing student achievement and well worth the effort that is involved in such a major educational reform.  Below is a list of four things that must be successfully implemented in order for the program to positively impact student achievement:

1. Vision In order to produce students that possess 21st Century knowledge and skills it is imperative that educational leaders think in an innovative and futuristic manner. It is time that we quit preparing our children for jobs that no longer exist, and we start preparing them to compete, not only nationally, but globally.  The most innovative leadership groups are using technology based resources to drive instructional practices.  Implementing a 1 to 1 program requires a leadership group that can create and share a vision of what it takes to educate children of the "digital native" generation. 
2. Financing Finding the funds for a 1 to 1 program can be extremely challenging.  In a time where more and more budgets are being slashed, it is becoming increasingly difficult to fund large technological initiatives.  In the case that funding is not available, the leadership group must get creative and find more unconventional methods for raising money.  Some of these ideas include grants, partnerships and soliciting donations. If the 1 to 1 program is a top priority, then you may need to think outside of the box to make it happen.
3. Infrastructure Many schools across America are full of wasted technological resources.  Computer labs and laptops often go unused because of infrastructure issues. It is vital to the program's success that all connectivity and maintenance issues are resolved ahead of time.  A combination of a delivery of 300 laptops and no wireless internet possibilities can curtail the program before it ever gets off the ground. Before moving forward with any 1 to 1 program it is important to determine if the district possesses the physical capabilities and manpower needed to implement and maintain the program.
4. Implementation Technology alone cannot revolutionize our educational process.  It still starts with good teachers.  In order for a 1 to 1 program to be successful, professional development has to be a top priority.  Most teachers are beyond the age of the "digital native" generation and have not been adequately trained in how to identify and use the best methods for integrating instructional technology.  In order to completely change the culture of the learning environment, teachers must receive extensive training in how to use the available technology to create an innovative learning environment. If this step is not done correctly, then the entire process will be utterly worthless.

To learn more about implementing a 1 to 1 computing initiative, please listen to the following interview with  Cullman City Schools (Alabama) Superintendent Jan Harris: click here to listen. To visit Cullman City Schools' 1 to 1 webpage, click here.

Entry written by Jeffery Stout