Getting Smart with Education Technology

It makes good sense that schoolchildren should and learn with technology devices given the ubiquity of computing. But the devil is in the detail; only with expert assistance and support, technology becomes a useful and productive tool in the classroom, complementing rather than replacing traditional educational approaches.

That’s according to Tony Gilbert, New Era Technology Sales Director. “Technology can be powerful in accelerating and enriching teaching and learning. It is no replacement for relationships, core skills and behaviours, but adds depth to the learning experience while preparing children for a bright and productive future.”

Special–and surprisingly sophisticated–requirements

Like all tools, the crucial factor is in its use. That’s where New Era comes into the picture; anyone dipping a toe into the technology space quickly appreciates how complex it gets.

When equipping teams with IT, the challenges quickly multiply – and that’s as true for schools as it is for businesses, with the added complication of special security and access measures that must protect children and teachers from the darker sides of technology and internet usage. “The requirements are about as diverse as it gets. Education is a microcosm of the technologies that are used in society and industry, so we see a full spectrum of requests and deployments, some of which might undoubtedly surprise you.”

New Era supplies anything from laser cutters to 3D printers, advanced analytic software, design programmes and all the associated hardware and supporting infrastructure. “When you start considering the range and extent of the technology products many schools are equipping their learners with, you start getting a better appreciation of just how extensive the preparation for the real world gets,” adds Gilbert.

The power of a partner

He therefore says a key part of what New Era does is helping schools make good decisions that deliver lasting value. “We help choose technology that’s the right fit, and we make sure it works in the way that you expect it to, too.”

He says the best devices are built for the commercial environment, with HP’s Fortis for Education a preferred range. Produced specifically for schools, HP Fortis includes Windows laptops, Chromebooks, Desktops, Workstations, Displays and Printers, all built within four guiding principles:

• Durability: Designed and built tough and tested to higher standards. • Clean and sanitise: Chassis, keyboard and display can be sanitized with commonly used household wipes. • Collaborative learning: Multi-modal for classroom collaboration and learning everywhere. • Connectivity: Bring your classroom with you and connect from almost anywhere.

HP’s education technology solutions are designed to deliver meaningful outcomes for students, schools and communities, helping today’s learners become tomorrow’s leaders. Gilbert says a long track record in New Zealand’s schools means he recommends Fortis for Education with confidence.