Disclosure: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Technology has made tremendous changes that impact the modern world, and it’s no exception within the classroom walls. As I’ve mentioned before, having an electronic device for each student to use at school and home has been a game-changer for our district.  The initiative extends to summer, too. This year, all sixth grade students got to take home the laptops they were issued during the school year.  The summer reading project is extended to include online discussions about the book.  Rising sixth graders have the opportunity to get their laptops early, giving them time to read books online over the summer.  School districts have help, too.  Best Buy provides equipment and support to make the most of those technology-budget dollars.  By allowing them to be your education technology partner, you’re opening the door to great new things!

Several years ago, on an early Saturday morning, one of my students and his father arrived on my doorstep.  He had a late assignment, and his dad brought him (uninvited) to my house to turn it in!  How much easier would it have been (and so much less awkward) if he had been able to submit it online.  The interesting thing about technology is the way that it’s easily modified to a changing world – and a changing student. At the younger grades, children can use the right devices to practice skills and review material.  The interactive interface of a tablet, for example, makes it a fun way to practice reading. As students grow, they can take notes and conduct research on a laptop.  Assignment preparation is often simpler when completed on a device, and the work can be turned in with a click of a button. No more unexpected arrivals at the teacher’s house!

Look closely at the image above.  You’ll notice that each child is on a different screen.  Technology allows students to learn at their own pace. Through technology products, students are connected beyond the classroom walls.  They can extend their learning to the outside world. Collaboration has never taken on such a great meaning in the past. Remember the days of the conference calls?  Think of the world wide web as a giant party line! All of these skills deepen the student’s readiness to enter a changing workforce.  The devices that ignite this change can be found at Best Buy.  They offer a variety of options, from laptops to tablets, and work with school systems nationwide to provide support and advice.  Their renowned Geek Squad even facilitates training for school staff, making sure that teachers know how to make the most of the equipment! Whatever the stage your school finds itself in, Best Buy can recommend the right technology products for your school, district, and students.

Note to educators: If you are attending ISTE Conference and Expo on June 28 – July 1, check out the Best Buy Education booth (#2262).  They will feature daily demonstrations throughout the conference.