Rolesville Middle School is beginning a school-wide
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program for the 2016-17 school year!
Here is some important information about this program, and how it will impact learning at RMS.
Why BYOD?
(Why are we encouraging students to bring and use devices normally not allowed in school?)
The first (and most important question) that teachers and parents ask when they hear about Bring Your Own Device programs (BYOD, also known as BYOT, for Technology) is "Why are we encouraging students to bring and use devices that are normally banned in school?" The answer is twofold. The first reason that BYOD has a positive impact is that having small devices with internet browsers readily available every single day has a remarkable effect on student learning. The use of technology moves from being a once-in-a-while event to a normal part of every school day. Under supervision, students can access online resources to enhance their learning. They can use the devices to submit work and to complete short assessments. They can even learn to check their school email and monitor their own grades. Once these habits develop, the technology becomes a useful tool rather than a novel toy.
The second reason is that students learn more positive and productive uses for their gadgets. Students begin to realize that the screens that they normally stare at to play a game, read a Facebook post, or listen to music can also be powerful tools for taking control of their own learning.
In the end, that is the most meaningful outcome of a Bring Your Own Device program: students take ownership of their own education. We hope that you will agree!
The second reason is that students learn more positive and productive uses for their gadgets. Students begin to realize that the screens that they normally stare at to play a game, read a Facebook post, or listen to music can also be powerful tools for taking control of their own learning.
In the end, that is the most meaningful outcome of a Bring Your Own Device program: students take ownership of their own education. We hope that you will agree!
What Can My Student Bring To School?
The details of the types of devices that are allowed in school as part of BYOD are listed in the letter that was sent home with each student. Basically, the ideal device is a smartphone, tablet, or iPod touch. However, a small laptop is also acceptable, if somewhat unwieldy.
Gaming devices are not allowed.
Gaming devices are not allowed.
What About Loss, Damage, Theft...?
Wake County Public Schools, Rolesville Middle School, and its teachers cannot be responsible for devices that students bring. Students may be encouraged to bring their devices to class once per day, but this will vary depending on the teacher. Devices must stay secured in their locker during the rest of the day.
Students and families are responsible for the safety and security of these devices.
Students and families are responsible for the safety and security of these devices.
No Device? No Problem!
For students/parents who do not wish to use their own devices, laptops or similar technology, will be provided for student use at a 3:1 (student to technology) ratio. This means that students without devices will still be able to engage the lesson in the same way as students who brought their own device, but it may also mean that students without their own device will share a laptop with one or two other students. All Acceptable Use Guidelines will apply to students using the school's technology.
Rules and/or Limitations for Students
There is a short list of guidelines that parents and students must agree to before the student is allowed to bring the device to class. Violation of these rules is punishable by confiscation of the device (to be picked up by an adult) and/or suspension of BYOD privileges. You can find these guidelines on the Responsible Use Policy that was sent home with students.