Jounal #8

Bouterse, B. Corn, J. Halstead, E. (August, 2009). Choosing the Perfect Tools for One-to-One. Learning and Leading with Technology, Retrieved August 4, 2009 , from Choosing the Perfect Tools for One-to-One

Synopsis:
There is a lot to consider when looking to buy computers for a school. This article went into detail about what school administrators need to consider before going out and purchasing computers. While it might seem like to best option to buy cheaper computers so as to not blow the budget this article talked about why that isn't always the best option. When buying the cheaper computer my seem like the better deal the whole picture needs to be taken into consideration to see if the computer can handle all that will be required by the students. The side by side comparisons were very helpful in getting a visual for what each computer has to offer and the type of work it would be best suited for. There are a lot of parts of the puzzle when considering buying computers for a school.

Question:
With so much to think about will schools move towards one-to-one set-up?
This article came out at a very interesting time for education in California. Since California is suffering from such a huge deficit it might be detrimental to getting the proper technology in the classroom. Hopefully in the next five to ten years there will more one-to-one schools around the country. Computers are such an amazing resource for education that to leave that untapped would be a travesty.

Question:
Should school hire consultants to help them make the most cost effective decision when purchasing computers?
It might be a wise decision to hire someone that can look and the school and evaluate what would be the most appropriate computer. There are so many out there and when deciding purchasing on a large scale it might be wise to enlist the help of someone who really understands technology.