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Remote Learning

A brief discussion with Emily Cook, Category Manager at Trox

The unexpected shift to remote learning revealed that many educators are still struggling to incorporate technology into their teaching methods. A recent University of Phoenix survey of more than one thousand K–12 teachers found that nearly 50 percent were unprepared for online instruction. ^{( 1 )}

At the same time, more devices are being used for teaching and learning than ever before and new software features are being released quickly to accommodate the continued effects of the pandemic on education.

Helping educators find and use the right tools to navigate remote learning is crucial. Education technology adoption is no longer just about the IT department – IT directors are now key enablers of a school district's differentiation and growth.

We spoke with Trox's category manager, Emily Cook, about the remote learning gaps that have emerged and the trends that are now driving opportunity and which IT directors cannot ignore.

Question: So, what can schools do in the meantime to overcome the shortage?

Emily: IT directors can work with technology partners that have the stock to handle any size deployment. They can also get value in their unused or dated technology by trading in unused devices for cash or credit through buyback programs. These programs are becoming more popular as part of a long-term tech plan as schools continue to invest in remote learning technology.

Question: What about the management of so many devices? Are there any challenges?

Emily: School IT departments are struggling to manage their growing device fleets. If you compare a business with 10,000 devices to a school district with 10,000 devices, the business's IT team will be significantly larger than the IT team in the school district. This means school IT teams are constantly looking for ways to save time and increase efficiency.

Question: What recommendations do you have to help schools manage their technology ecosystem?

Emily: IT teams can alleviate their administrative burden and simplify the day-to-day responsibilities of managing fast-growing device fleets with the following management software.

Question: How about safeguarding device fleets? We know that IT directors are facing challenges diagnosing faulty equipment and sourcing replacement parts for device fleets. Are there any protection plans?

Emily: Accidental damage rates have skyrocketed over the last 12 months as remote learning devices spend more time in transit and at home with students. Districts are struggling to handle their new repair volumes, particularly from a financial standpoint. Money is tighter than ever, making dealing with unforeseen repairs even harder, especially when schools only allocate 10-20% of their budgets ^{( 2 )} on tech-related costs.

IT directors can take advantage of accidental damage protection plans that prevent schools from paying out-of-pocket for routine repairs. In addition, some solution providers, like Trox, offer extensions on original equipment manufacturer (OEM) warranties. IT directors can take advantage of our SHIELD Protection Program to make life easier (and less costly). With the SHIELD program, we offer extended OEM warranties, accidental damage coverage, repairs in under 10 days (subject to parts availability), free shipping to and from our repair facility and much more.

Question: Let's talk about empowering collaborative learning. Are there tools available for students to collaborate in rigorous, creative learning environments?

Emily: Managing a digital classroom is much different from managing a real classroom. Getting a real-time view of students' screens, restricting access to off-task websites and applications and generally keeping all students on task from behind a screen is challenging. Digital classroom management capabilities are crucial for eliminating distractions and creating nurturing virtual classrooms for students to thrive. School districts need to invest in classroom management software that teachers can use to block certain websites, control individual devices and mute students when others are speaking.

Also, the sudden onset of remote and hybrid learning has dramatically impacted teachers' abilities to engage their students. They seek ways to encourage collaboration through rigorous yet creative learning experiences by integrating STEM and Esports into the curriculum. Teachers can use collaborative learning programs to split students into virtual groups and create spaces to work together away from the rest of the class. They can also use collaborative platforms to conduct pop quizzes, run polls, project virtual whiteboards and share presenting privileges - all of which encourage interaction.

Question: Lastly, are there opportunities that educators can take advantage of around professional development?

Emily: Staying current on the technology used for teaching in remote and hybrid learning environments can be challenging for school districts. Whether you have a one-to-one initiative, are using interactive technology, collaborative tools, or AV equipment, IT directors should improve the experience of technology adoption and increase user confidence with customized professional development (PD) services for teachers and trainers.