BYOD

I think BYOD can work with some caveats. Starting in 5^th grade students could bring devices to school for use under certain conditions and for use in some situations. This comes with an understanding to use them responsibly. For middle school, grades 6-8, the situations would be very similar.

Beginning with the agreement students would make for using their own devices, students must use them responsibly and with appropriate digital citizenship. This may mean using the device for communicating and researching, but not for taking personal photographs, videos and voice recordings. All communications would have to be for positive outcomes. These expectations would need to be taught and retaught by classroom teachers with support from technology leaders and integrationists.

In terms of where personal digital devices could be used, common areas in school would be reasonable for unfettered use. Classrooms would be managed by the teacher in charge of the students. In classrooms, personal digital devices would be primarily for academic purposes, although at times, with supervision, the devices could be used for communication or entertainment.

The devices authorized for school could be a cell smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop. An open, campus wide WiFi would be maintained by the school for student use.

The technology integration specialist would be responsible for training students, staff and parents about the responsible use of the personal devices. The classroom teachers, with support from the technology integrationist would maintain the expectations and norms around personal digital devices.

When violations occur, it is a learning opportunity for all concerned. If the violation is severe enough, the student would then need direct, close supervision at all times with technology and perhaps turn over their personal digital device upon arrival to school for return when leaving.  

To allow students access to personal digital devices creates an atmosphere of authenticity at school. As soon as students step out of the school, digital access to information is unprecedented. School has to take the lead in helping students learn how to use digital tools and skills responsibly, there are no other adult leaders in a position to do this, with the exception of parents. It is our responsibility, and as daunting as it may seem, the challenge, excitement and promise that comes with the digital landscape for students needs to be guided by educators for appropriate use as a responsible digital citizen.

http://www.katyisd.org/dept/technology/instructionaltechnology/Pages/Classroom-Technology.aspx