Laptops, Part 1

Torbert, Nancy

Warschauer, M. (2005). Going one-to-one. Educational Leadership, 63(4), 34-38.

This article written in 2005 discusses advantages and disadvantages of implementing a 1:1 laptop program resulting from a two-year study in Maine, grades 3-12, in rural, urban, and suburban schools.

The article presented a balanced con and pro for schools and districts considering a 1:1 program. The results of the study for why not implementing the program—districts are not likely to see higher test scores; reform of troubled schools; or a decrease in achievement gaps. On the other hand, the positive benefits of implementing the program was 21st century learning skills; greater engagement through multimedia; more and better writing; deeper learning and easier integration of technology into instruction.

The article further made recommendations on what to think about before starting a laptop program:

·         Total cost of ownership (how will purchases be financed?)
·         Vendor
·         Maintenance (could use the iTech squad of the school library here)
·         Keeping students on task (not only is the laptop an educational tool but a game center, chat, etc.)
·         Time for teacher collaboration (to plan, and share lessons)
·         Go slowly (roll out the program in phases)

Three years ago our school implemented 1:1 laptops using Apple as the platform. Due to the costs associated with Apple laptops, they are being phased out and replaced with the Chromebook for incoming freshmen; current Apple laptop users will continue with this platform until graduation. 

In the lease to own program some students were facing financial hardships in trying to make the monthly payment and techs were putting in more time than expected to keep up with the tech requests associated with student laptops. Many schools have implemented 1:1 with iPads. Our school did not go in the direction—though the cost is less at $500 there was concern that even this cost may present a financial hardship; the chromebook is $249. There seems to be excitement generated by implementing the chromebook as it uses Google cloud-based applications and the opportunity for collaboration.