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Model and promote strategies for achieving equitable access to digital tools and resources and technology-related best practices for all students and teachers
Student Choice for Equitable Access
In order to model and promote equitable access to digital tools and resources, I have focused first and foremost on providing choice. I encourage students to utilize the tools that work best for them, especially for projects. Part of this is encouraging the use of free, online tools. Tools that are static to school subscriptions or local server access limit equitable access for students that do not have computer or internet access away from school.
Utilizing BYOD
BYOD allows educators to take advantage of current access to technology in the classroom, especially when access to other devices (computer labs, laptop carts, etc.) is limited. Additionally, BYOD can work to engage and personalize learning. Ultimately, it does bring with it the potential for inequity in the classroom. My implementation of BYOD always accounts for the population in the room. Since my current situation means that most students have a personal device on them, I have identified that it is appropriate to utilize this opportunity. My implementation of BYOD utilizes group work and a culture of sharing so that the use of BYOD is neither about the “haves and have nots,” nor individual grades. As a result, it is by design that my students are never at an advantage for having a device. Additionally, I always have extra devices on hand for students whenever we use BYOD. Finally, best practice also means that I require parents and students to sign user agreements for behavior and use at the start of the school year.
<-Return to ISTE 5 Digital Citizenship
