BYOD (or bring your own devices) has been championed by some independent schools, safe in the knowledge that their pupils are likely to have the latest (and therefore superior) technology to the school itself. But, are there opportunities for all schools? After all, aren’t most children glued to their precious mobile phone?

Here are the pros and cons for you to consider and apply to your school.

First, the pros:

• The majority of pupils already own the devices necessary for BYOD.
• Pupils’ mobiles, for instance, tend to be more cutting edge than technology already in school.
• It’s a cost-effective way to save schools money.
• If pupils bring their own devices in, schools can concentrate funding on the pupils who need it, perhaps by providing a tablet.
• Pupils are familiar with using their own tech, so they can focus on learning with them rather than learning how to use other tech. 
• Pupils will remember to bring in their own tech.
• With BYOD, pupils may be more likely to continue learning outside schools hours.
• BYOD provides the opportunity for teaching respectful/appropriate use.
• Pupils become more organised, with their notes and assignments all in one place.
• BYOD gives pupils access to other information and resources. There are lots of educational apps to get pupils excited about learning.
• Teachers can use apps that will connect them with pupils and parents.
• Pupils love technology, so BYOD engages them and gets them excited about learning.
• BYOD allows opportunities for personalised learning, where pupils can excel at their own pace.
• Pupils take control of ensuring that their device is working, instilling a sense of responsibility.
• BYOD can be used as a privilege to encourage pupils to stay on course.

But there are cons too:

• Vast numbers of mobile devices and other tech could overload your wireless network. It might be challenging for your IT department to manage the bandwidth required.
• A pupil may introduce a virus from home onto the school network.
• Tech may become a status symbol for pupils, causing a divide between the haves and have-nots.
• Some pupils may not be able to afford the tech.
• BYOD may increase the risk of theft.
• BYOD opens up the danger of cheating. 
• Some teachers may resist teaching by using new technology.
• Parents may not be happy with paying for mobile use in school.
• Pupils may be distracted while working on their own tech, particularly if it is a mobile.
• Pupils might forget to charge their devices.
• Pupils may forget to bring their tech to school.
• Some apps may not be universal across all platforms.
• Some pupils may not want to have school work on their personal tech.

Overall, there’s a balance here between effective use of ICT resources against security issues, and between different styles of teaching. In the end, it’s your call to balance the pros against the cons.