What is the story of Shepherd of the Hills and a tablet 1:1 program? Here was our situation and issues:

1. We knew that educationally and competitively we needed to embrace a 1:1 model.

2. Embracing 1:1 was a challenge with budget and enrollment issues.

3. Enlisted donations for initial devices.

4. Started with one class and centrally managed devices.

5. iPad vs. Android

6. Year Two: Hybrid ownership model, all 6th-8th students, wireless infrastructure upgrade, and student/family account ownership.

7. Students take devices home.

8. Year Three: All new students and incoming 6th graders must purchase devices.

1. Cost....Android wins. Android 7" tablets in the $220 range, while entry level iPad 2s at $399.

2. App Store .. Apple wins. Google Play store is like the Wild West, while Apple is far more useful and focused.

3. Ease of Use -- Apple wins. Lots of compatibility issues with Android apps since they are not viewed in the same way.

4. Resonance of Apple products in our particular geographic location.

1. Increase in student engagement, especially with the touch screen.
2. Personal devices -- students able to shift between realms -- formal to informal, personal to social, etc.
3. Personalization of tools, workflow, and ways to accomplish standards.
4. Enhances and stimulates face-to-face interaction.
5. Increases in the number and scope of formative assessments.
6. Work with multiple devices for a more comprehensive learning experience.

1. Work flow
2. Intentional management and planning
3. Flash
4. Fragility of screen

1. Single account
2. Apple Configurator
3. Student/Family accounts

No matter what 1:1 model you choose as a school, the ability of the teacher makes a far greater impact than the choice of any technology tool.