Before you launch your BYOT program, follow these lessons learned by Tim Clark, coordinator of instructional technology for Forsyth County Schools in Georgia:
1. Administrator Support and Expectations.When an administrator indicates that BYOT is important for students and expects that students should be using their technology tools for learning, then teachers are more motivated to encourage BYOT.
2. Adequate Infrastructure.Having a robust WiFi network is essential to the effective implementation of BYOT.
3. Dedicated, Interested Teachers. Teachers have to understand that they don’t need to know how to use all of the technology tools that come into their classrooms.
4. Parent Support. There are many ways to help parents understand BYOT. Use a polling app during a PTA meeting so that parents can participate with their own devices. Share suggestions for apps and tools or provide links to successful BYOT lessons.
5. A BYOT Policy.Develop a new Responsible Use Policy that focuses on nurturing trust among teachers and students.
6. A BYOT Purpose/Vision. The vision for BYOT needs to be understood and shared by all of the members of the learning community.
7. BYOT Capacity and Equity. A good blend of school technology resources and personal technology tools seems like the most equitable solution.
8. On-Going Personalized Professional Learning.Having a great PLN like #BYOTchat in Twitter can help shape your professional learning.
