Re: 1 to 1 Computing -- Seeking Input
 

I suggest that those of you who ask what will be the function of the computers, if they will replace the schools current desktops or offer specs. for high processing machines do a basic search of what is the purpose of 1:1 computing.

Likely, those computers that serve higher-level technical functions will not be effected and these computers will not serve that purpose. Rather, the purpose of 1:1 is equity; the potential for all students to have unlimited access to a computer for which they can take some degree of ownership. This is an ed. tech. initiative all in itself. It is not the schools new computers nor does it in any way directly effect students with divergent computer-based interests. Likely those students will have other opportunities to pursue those interests. As far as I understand, with 1:1, the computer is an aid for ms office applications and the internet (i.e. windows live, mailing lists). As a result, I can't imagine a netbook would not serve these necessary functions. Think that the goal is that all students have access to computer-based group projects and word processing.

Best,
Sam

P.S. I love that we are having an involved discussion of ed. tech. on CD because this is why FIRST is meaningful for me and many people I know. The question is how do we alter the tools we use for learning to make it more accessible and more meaningful. The answer, broadly, is to decrease win-lose scenarios and increase those that are win-win through collaborative strategies using tech. With this in mind, FIRST is an answer, through all of its faculties, but it is limited. I do not believe that FIRST is plausible for implementation in the average classroom. 1:1, cloud platforms and smart technologies are others and they can be applied to the classroom, but, of course, effort needs to be a applied to create effective strategies and lessons for students using these tools. They are only tools, just as the robot is only a tool and each team creative applies what that means for its program.

FIRST, for me, is about mental wrestling with oneself through the ideas of others and learning through this dialogue. Thank you Sal, CD, and FRC 47.

Re: 1 to 1 Computing -- Seeking Input
 

Just my $.02. In my opinion tablets are the way to go. I have brought my laptop to my college classes and consistently not used it because of the lack of room.
To me the necessities are long battery life, input/output ports (Ipad fails here), wireless connectivity, hardware you can upgrade.

I'm also a huge proponent of opensource software so Linux (or android) of some variety, open office, ext. These programs are free so save licensing fees and the students still learn the skills necessary to use any industry standard programs like Microsoft Office. And the variety of free programs available through Linux distributions can add a lot of choice for the users without extra cost.

Re: 1 to 1 Computing -- Seeking Input
 

You have all hit upon the same basic problems I have with the task at hand...lack of specifics. This is a statewide launch dictated at the state level and a task force tasked with working out details after the fact.

Having taught in the classroom, using blended technology (Moodle), and in a purely online school all at the same time, I'm confident I know what needs to be in place, what I am seeking (and some of you provided) were names and details about implementation and what has worked or could work well.

Please forgive my lack of more specifics...I simply don't have any. To a certain extent I don't think technical specifications were part of the legislative thought process. At some levels "computer is a computer" thinking may have existed in the early stages and we're left to define what is should look like now that it has passed (this task force was part of the legislation).

Thank you all for your input and information. I will be contacting some of you directly when I have more time.