BYOD for Schools: Setting a Policy That Students and Teachers Can Work With

How to protect confidential data while ensuring teachers and students have enough flexibility to foster a rich learning environment

When most of us think of BYOD policies, we often think about how they affect businesses. While companies need robust BYOD policies, it’s just as important for schools to have robust BYOD policies to ensure students and teachers can work effectively while not opening the school up to potential security issues.

As schools look to embrace change, administrators are faced with the need to support BYOD devices. Many students and teachers have long been quietly using their devices and many administrators have been slow to develop a position when it comes to mobile devices.

BYOD saves school districts money

With today’s ever shrinking education budgets, school districts must look to save money in new ways. While providing mobile devices to students may be the preferred route, it is not always possible. For some districts, BYOD devices offer a way for classrooms to have access to the latest and greatest technology without the large capital investment.

Is supporting BYOD devices fair?

One point that some opponents have brought up is whether it is fair to allow BYOD devices in schools when not everyone can afford to purchase these devices. What most educators say to this point is that allowing BYOD devices in schools helps to give those who may not be able to afford these devices access to this new and useful technology. Teachers work hard to share the devices in such a way to not make it obvious that certain students may not be able to afford these devices.

Many teachers are accustomed to this technology

Another reason why many districts are seriously considering allowing BYOD devices is because many new hires are millennials and thus extremely well versed in using these devices. Many millennials are accustomed to using BYOD devices in their past studies and have no problem with promoting the use of mobile devices in the classroom.

Will these devices become distractions?

Some argue that allowing BYOD devices could cause distractions in the classroom. While this may be true, it’s ultimately up to the teachers and educators to police the use of these devices and ensure that they do not become a nuisance in the classroom. In short, students looking for distractions will find them regardless of whether they have a mobile device. It’s ultimately up to the teachers to provide a stimulating environment so that students are more interested in learning than they are in creating a distraction.

BYOD devices can benefit schools if used properly

With mobile devices holding mountains of information that can apply to nearly every subject being taught in schools around the country, it’s hard to believe that these devices should be completely banned.

Schools that can develop robust and realistic BYOD policies focused on furthering students’ education and protecting important data can be extremely beneficial to school districts around the country—especially those that are struggling financially.

To consult with mobile technology experts that can help you build an effective BYOD policy for your institution, contact us today.