One to One Computing Proposal:
A Laptop for Every Student

In October of 2005 we started our investigation as to whether a One-to-One Laptop Initiative, one laptop per student, would be a good fit for education at BBA.

After extensive web research, two site visits to other schools and a good bit of discussion on pros and cons we feel that a laptop initiative is a perfect fit for our school and subsequently for many others as well.

There are concerns over initiatives like the one we are proposing here. One of the prime concerns is that "kids are too plugged in" these days. The first goal in a "school with laptops" initiative is to achieve equity of access to this powerful tool. The second goal is to address what "plugged in" actually means. A one to one laptop initiative opens up incredible possibilities for students in and outside school, a wealth of supplemental materials and creative options to explore... when they need or want to do so. How they use these new tools, or better put "how they choose to use them" is the issue to address. Engaging students in sophisticated use practices in school, helping them to achieve the concept of balance, understanding, of managing life with and without digital resources is of utmost importance as we prepare them for the future. Modeling "learning" and exploring creativity using these tools in education will get us far beyond the ideals of simply using these tools to be entertained.

Technology has created new challenges to conventional thoughts on literacy, teaching and school. Never before have so many had access to such a wealth of information. It would be difficult to debate that technology has become quite prominent in our society. Promoting sophisticated use, is a far better practice than pretending we can avoid it. The power of equity and opportunity, and the ideals of modeling, exploring and vigorous use is what we aspire to acheive here... just like we aspire to do with books and paper.

We put together this document (PDF) to introduce the discussion on campus, to begin educational, philosophical, financial and frequently asked questions on the subject.

We've crafted up a follow up presentation (Google Presentation) to speak to these ideals a bit further.

We have also published a presentation with results from our Student Technology and Access Survey to help support the rationale of how such an initiative can improve educational opportunities for all folks on our campus and community.

Since the beginning of our investigation we've had many philosophical discussions and cost analysis meetings. We have explored financial models from fully funded initiatives to offering financial assistance for laptop purchase while attending this school (available by request). We are hopeful that this enlightening educational initiative will come to fruition at BBA.

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