Which device is right for the classroom?

Photo by Marius Masalar on Unsplash

​It is important that a device is not only learning ready but it also needs to survive the rough and tumble of the classroom... and the school bag. There are so many considerations when purchasing a new device; operating system, applications, non touch, touch, stylus... the list goes on! 

An entry level non touch Windows device allows students to access all of the great features of Windows 10 in addition to running full desktop applications, apps from the Microsoft Store and browser based websites. Educational games such as Minecraft: Education Edition can be downloaded and installed on a Windows 10 device in addition to the inbuilt Windows 10 programs such as Paint 3D, Mixed Reality and the Photos app. These programs provide the tools students need to express their ideas in new and creative ways, giving them access to libraries of 3D models, stickers, effects, and the power to blend their virtual and physical worlds through mixed reality! These devices are great for everyday learning, however, the addition of touchscreen and pen functionality introduces benefits beyond a keyboard and screen. 

Touch screen Windows devices with full keyboard and active stylus allow students to learn in a way that best suits them. They can notetake, sketch, draw and annotate as they adjust their device from tablet to tent to laptop mode. A touchscreen, 360 laptop offers students the ability to interact with their device in a comfortable and natural manner. Resting their hand on screen, they can write as they would on paper, however, they are afforded the added benefits of instant sharing, collaboration, audio recording and more. Students in my classroom loved how easy and natural it was to work with a touch screen especially when default applications such as OneNote and Paint 3D allow them to express their creativity with digital inking. Research has shown that when using a pen, students produce more diagrams, symbols and numbers leading to an increase in their academic performance. 

With so many considerations, it can feel overwhelming. Whether you are choosing a device for your school environment or choosing which device is right for your child as a BYOD option, I'm here to help! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions and we can find the best solution for your needs - morgan.mckeen@nlg.co.nz