Is It Normal for Students to Bring Their Own Laptops to School?
The practice of students bringing their own laptops to school, often referred to as BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), varies widely depending on the region, school district, and specific school policies. Generally, in many areas, it is becoming increasingly common for students to bring their own devices, especially in high school and college settings. This trend facilitates digital learning and access to online resources.
The Evolution of School Technology Policies
Historically, school districts and individual schools have had varying approaches to technology. In some cases, schools with 1:1 device programs provide every student with a laptop or tablet, reducing the need for students to bring their own devices. However, in other, more rural, or underfunded districts, access to technology can be limited, leading to a scenario where only a small handful of students bring their own laptops.
Personal Recollection: The First Student with a Computer
Growing up, I was the first person in my school to ever bring a computer from home. I had a KAYPRO II, which at the time was priced between approximately 1500 to 2000 depending on the options. I arrived at school with my backpack and computer, went to class, and asked for a desk near a power outlet. My teacher did not know what to think and even ordered the librarian to come to the room.
After being given a desk, the librarian helped me set up the computer. As I began typing away and working on my word processor, my story for class, the principal and school counselor entered the library and began chatting as I worked. This unusual scenario lasted for a while, during which time an officer, along with a few others, arrived. Soon after, the counselor came back and asked me to join her in the office. They told me they had been trying to contact my parents and asked if I knew where they were. I vaguely explained that they were at my grandmother's, where my grandpa had a new truck and they were planning to visit.
Upon receiving this information, the counselor promptly called my parents. By this point, the librarian and I spent a few hours or so before lunch playing with the computer. As it turned out, my first PC was better than all the computers at school, which only had 5 portable and less capable machines. The fact that this PC was portable, faster, and had a modem and two floppy disk drives made a significant difference. The librarian even ran a phone line to it and was introduced to his first BBS that day, which he later opened at the local college.
I only brought the computer to school for show-and-tell and did not plan to bring it again. However, it soon became evident that a kid with a computer was an unusual and rare sight in 1994, causing excitement and some initial alarm, even leading to the involvement of the police.
Fear My Portable Computer!
The story highlights the significant technological shift that occurred during the late 1990s and early 2000s, where the use of home computers at school became a matter of concern due to the unfamiliarity and the potential for misuse. This anecdote underscores the evolving relationship between technology, education, and the broader societal context.