BYOD Vs 1:1

BYOD and 1:1 are two popular trends in today's educational jargon. The common thing between these two trends is that they are both technology-induced. They came about as a direct result of the wider uptake of digital technologies. Also both of these trends aim at a better integration and a wider access to technology within formal educational settings. There are several pros and cons to each option and the visual below  outlines some of the major differences between these two approaches in terms of costs, equality, compatibility, and maintenance. 

What is BYOD ?

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is often used interchangeably with other acronyms such as BYOT (Bring Your own Technology), BYOPC ( Bring your Own PC), BYOP ( Bring Your Own Phone). The essence of BYOD revolves around encouraging and permitting students to bring their own personally-owned electronic gadgets to class.

What is 1:1 ?

One to one computing (1:1) is a strategy pursued by several educational institutions which  aims at equipping each student with  an electronic device( laptops, tablets, smart phones…etc) that will allow them to access digital course materials (textbooks and online learning content). The benefits of 1:1 computing include :  " equal access, standardization, easy upgrade, simple networking, the ability to monitor student progress and online behaviour. "

Now let's have a look at the differences between these trends :

1- Cost
Cost wise BYOD beats 1:1. While both 1:1 and BYOD require wireless network infrastructure upgrades, BYOD's users are providing the device.

2-Equality
1:1 beats BYOD in terms of digital equality. 1:1 brings uniform integration of technology to every class which eliminates digital inequality. With 1:1 schools won't have to worry about who doesn't and who does have the right device.

3- Apps
When it comes to the compatibility of applications, 1:1 beats BYOD. Applications may not be universal across all platforms causing possible issues for BYOD users. With 1:1, since everyone has the same device and on the same platform, schools know whatever apps they use will work on all of their students devices.

4- Maintenance
With 1:1 there are long terms maintenance costs for the school including upgrades and replacing old devices for new ones. With BYPD the maintenance is the responsibility of the user.



   Source: securedgenetworks