One computer for each student. This concept has gained ground with educators as a way to improve student engagement in learning and to level the playing field between students who have access to computers at home and those who do not. However, providing a laptop or desktop computer for every student comes with a unique set of challenges. When IT staff hears that a school district has chosen to invest in Apple hardware for all its students, this should be really good news! However, they may be faced with the prospect of bringing hundreds or thousands of machines online in short order. Once the program is in place, maintaining computers with a current image, installing updates, and providing proactive support to maximize uptime and minimize classroom disruption is key to a successful program.
Many schools also enact policies to prevent distraction caused by the very computers that are supposed to enhance education. However, if they lack the tools to enforce these policies, they are fighting a losing battle. Smart, creative students will rarely tire of testing limitations.
The Casper Suite can help one-to-one programs succeed by providing tools for IT staff to image, maintain, and control student Mac populations.