One Best Thing

In large districts, the biggest challenge is to differentiate professional development for teachers with varying skills and confidence using technology. This book tells the story of a large school district in suburban Chicago, where for the past three years federal, state, and local funding provided over 5000 iPad and iPod touch devices. The devices are being used in every possible deployment scenario—from one device for the teacher, to shared sets, to a one-to-one program. Using mobile devices to enhance and especially redefine instructional practices for all students is an important mission. The challenge for professional development providers is to make the mission of the instructional program the focus, while helping teachers see the relevance of the tools for their own environment.