1. Infrastructure is key to success. Shenandoah already had a robust Wi-Fi network in 2009, but IT leaders recognized that extra capacity would be needed to accommodate new traffic from the one-to-one device program. “Pretty much every year, we’ve made some changes to the Wi-Fi network,” Silvius says. “We increased the number of access points tremendously in that first year, and that really saved us.”
2. Tech levels the playing field. “Before we started iMLearning, students would come in with their older sibling’s 10-year-old laptop that was still running Microsoft Windows XP,” Silvius says. “With a standardized device program, everyone has access to the same technology. We don’t have to worry about students lacking access due to their economic background.”
3. A device is not just a device. When students enroll at Shenandoah, they receive more than just MacBooks and iPads; they get access to a full suite of wraparound services that help them to make the most of their devices. Shenandoah’s technology fee also covers custom applications, 24/7 wireless access, hardware and software support, anti-virus software, four years of AppleCare, and access to Microsoft 365.
4. Standardization simplifies support. With only two device types from a single vendor, Shenandoah’s IT support staff can develop deep expertise rather than trying to stay up to date on myriad different platforms. “Our help desk has been outstanding,” Silvius says. “I think having an almost all-Apple campus makes a difference.”
5. Not everyone will be on board (and that’s OK). As Silvius has learned, you can’t please all of the people all of the time. “I went to a conference in the very beginning with three faculty members, and an English professor said during one of the sessions that he didn’t see how this was going to benefit his students,” Silvius recalls. “Even today, there are a handful of professors who tell students not to bring their devices to class with them.” Those instructors are a distinct minority, however, and they haven’t prevented the iMLearning program from having a significant campuswide impact.
Click the banner below to learn how to optimize your university’s device management program