Databus Issue: 2011 4 10/31/2011
Storing, Charging, and Syncing Tablet Computers: One Size Does Not Necessarily Fit All
Dean Smith CEO, D&D Security Resources
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Tablet computers have become one of the most exciting teaching tools to hit classrooms in a while. We've already seen the benefits of the Apple iPad: the ease of use, how it engages the student, the anytime-anywhere learning options, and the heightened communication between teachers, students and families.
The extraordinary potential of this learning tool is also fueling innovation. The tablet market is growing at an exponential pace, affording Districts the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of options at a number of different price points. And, those amazing apps. Everyone is eager to see, test, and use the latest and greatest educational apps to help their students thrive.
While educators are excited to put this new technology through its paces, there are still the nuts and bolts of 'fleet management' for those tablets. Security software, filtered wireless access, computer tagging, asset engraving, and written procedures should be automatic when the tablets come in the door. But, then they go out the door: to classrooms, computer labs, or even home with students. How do you securely store, quickly charge, and easily sync dozens--perhaps hundreds--of tablets after they have been deployed?
This is where the 'one size does not necessarily fit all' concept comes into play. Just as each district will create its own plan to maximize the benefits of tablet computers, the process for completely and effectively overseeing the use of tablets must be developed. Fortunately, there is a mix-and-match effect available when it comes to storing, charging, and syncing tablets that allows each district to find best the solution to meet its individual needs.
As you begin the process, consider these two questions when developing your tablet fleet management plan:
WHERE ARE THEY TO BE SECURED? With the portability and versatility of tablets, or any handheld device such an iPod Touch for that matter, this question must be answered first.
• Will a set be in the classroom exclusively? If so, a fixed storage and charging station is the best option. Bolted to the counter-top or freestanding units, secure lockers come in almost any size needed (16, 20, 30, 32, and 48 unit sizes) and provide a secure location to store, and if needed, to charge and store. Consider your multi-year tablet plan when choosing a size. Too small makes for a costly replacement; too big and it's a waste of space and funds.
• Does the District need mobile carts to transport tablets from class to class? A cart that can store, charge, and be easily moved may be the best solution. Whether it's a 'charge-only' or a 'sync-and-charge' unit, sizes can range from a 20-unit size up to 48-unit size for the largest class. Look for a cart that is compact, durable, has adjustable compartments, and secure locking doors.
• Will students be assigned individual tablets or will tablets be available for checkout? If the tablets are not being charged at home, a centralized, fixed charging station either in class or other approved location would be optimal and allow students to bring them in each day to be charged during class or lunch. A fixed locker installation is an excellent solution for this issue. And again, sizes can range from 16-unit to 48-unit sizes.
HOW WILL THEY BE SYNCED? In the classroom? Library? District office? With any new technology, it can feel like uncharted territory when it comes to app purchases, content, downloads, and uses. Districts do need to address the many variables when it comes to securing and syncing tablets.
• Is every tablet going to have the exact same items downloaded, or will teachers have the flexibility to load class-specific software onto their students' tablets?
For Districts who want to control the content at the district level, there are syncing systems designed to transfer the image with the appropriate curriculum material to multiple tablets, as well as install district settings and protocols for the tablets.
Some companies have recently introduced stand-alone syncing devices that can sync groups of tablets to a single account. This option has proven to be an economical, convenient, and time-saving device for use in individual classrooms or for school districts with limited IT resources.
• Will the tablet be brought to one location for updating or do you need a mobile system that can travel from class to class, school to school? A large-capacity sync station (some can hold up to 49 units) would serve well for single-location syncing. If mobility is key, there are portable syncing solutions that will charge and sync up to 16 tablets. Look for a mobile system that has a heavy-duty transport case with handles and rollers.
A great example of tablet computer fleet management is from Corcoran Unified School District (CUSD) in Corcoran, California. CUSD considered the various options and created a customized plan that has been highly successful.
Securing, charging, and syncing tablets may not be as simplistic as picking one from column A and one from column B; instead, asking these questions and eliminating the unnecessary does make the process easier. Whether you are like CUSD and want to create a program for more than a thousand tablets, or you are just getting started with a single class set, know that there are options to aid you in developing a plan for storing, charging, and syncing that will work now and grow with your District's needs.
Dean Smith is president and CEO of D&D Security Resources, a leader in computer security, serving schools for more than 35 years. He can be reached at dean@ddsecurity.com.
