The BYOD (bring your device) initiative evokes paradoxical feelings. This model has many admirers because each student is allowed to learn with the technology that suits them the most, and tutors don’t have a deal with the school-owned technology. On the other hand, teachers will have a lot of work to do, adapting their courses to operate on various channels and platforms.
These setbacks notwithstanding, there are many rewards to the use of the BYOD Model in special education. We have picked 5 of these benefits:
- Students should learn with technologies that they are most comfortable using.
We all have technology preferences, and it is a stumbling block to learning for students to use one technology at home and another at school. It will take some time to adapt and can be confusing to the students. Supporting students to use their preferred devices can translate into better student outcomes, let those who are comfortable with Apple tablets bring their devices, and those who love laptops can come with theirs too.
- Students can get access to necessary learning aids.
A setback in using school-owned technologies is that the school restricts students from downloading apps and extra learning resources on these devices. This occurrence is generally because these devices can be used by students today, and tomorrow, who have different learning interests. It will change with the BYOD policy, as students can download apps that suit their unique needs without any restrictions.
- Students will learn the art of responsibility.
When the same gadget houses their learning apps, school projects, homework, and entertainment media, students will show more inclination to protect their devices. There will be no more distinction between school and non-school properties, and they will have to guard their school materials with as much jealousy. There may be some distractions along the way, but in an age where students are always on mobile devices, they may pay more attention to schoolwork on their devices than on hard copy papers.
- Differentiation is easier.
Differentiation in a BYOD learning environment can be challenging, and when it involves special-education learners, it is harder for teachers. You’ll have to tailor the lessons to suit the strengths of the different groups in the class. When the students have access to specially designed tools they require to flourish, it will burden of differentiation can be taken off the teacher. Visual and text learners can download e-textbooks; auditory learners can download audiobooks while kinesthetic learners can watch demonstrative videos online. The school can assess the students, and when their interests are determined, use learning aids that complement their interests in teaching them.
- Learning will be inclusive.
One of the most significant benefits of BYOD is that no student will be left behind. There are limited school hours and slow learners; it can be hard to cope with other students who grasp concepts faster. With this model, the students can take their learning materials along with them anywhere they go. This way, if anyone needs extra time to finish an assignment or go over a lesson again, they can do it.
