It is amazing to watch Douglas County students when they have a digital device, like an iPad or laptop, in their hands. They are able to immediately access information from the Internet and collaborate using applications like Google Docs or Edmodo. Imagine allowing these digital natives to infuse this type of high tech mastery into their learning all day long.
We know that as we strive to deliver a World-Class Education, digital tools can facilitate more and more learning opportunities. While that is not always possible due to the limited number of devices available, we aim to make it achievable through an initiative that schools can opt into - Personally Owned Devices (PODs). The goal of the PODs initiative is to leverage these devices so that students have access to learning applications and online information throughout the school day, not just when they are in a computer lab or when using school-owned technology. Each school independently has the ability to decide whether to opt into the POD program; please verify your school's policy prior to bringing a POD onsite.
The District provides access to our wireless network, with the necessary safeguards in place to ensure that inappropriate Internet content and sites are blocked. Students log onto our wireless network using their individual username and password, and that connectivity passes through the district web content filter. Those using PODs are still be held to the same standards set in the Students Rights & Responsibilities Handbook, which they sign annually. Violation of acceptable use can result in suspension of network access to the device.
Students and their families are ultimately responsible for their device, from ensuring appropriate software and anti-virus programs are in place, to troubleshooting issues with connectivity to DCSD wireless networks. The extent of support for PODs is simply ensuring the student's username and password are correct. It is also the student's responsibility to avoid theft, loss or damage to their device.
We have already seen the promise of this initiative. In some classrooms, teachers have begun to tie PODs into learning, allowing students who have smart phones to access information while working on their assignments. In these situations, even if only a few students have these devices, it can transform the classroom experience.