Motivating Students to Take Care of Laptops and Tablets: Strategies for Effective Implementation

school districts across the globe are increasingly providing students with devices like laptops and tablets to enhance learning and digital literacy. However, a key challenge lies in ensuring that these devices are taken care of. In this article, we explore the strategies employed by a school district that has successfully motivated students to protect their devices. The district provides both MacBook Air laptops and iPad Air tablets to students, with a multi-faceted approach to achieve this goal.

Introduction

In the district where I work, we distribute laptops and tablets to over 28,500 students. Each summer, we distribute over 12,000 MacBook Airs and 16,500 iPad Airs. To ensure these devices are taken care of, various preventative measures and financial incentives have been implemented.

The district has put in place a multi-layered protection strategy, starting with high-quality cases for the devices. Each MacBook Air is provided with an STM Dux case, while each iPad Air comes with a more aesthetically pleasing and functional STM case. The choice of cases has been carefully considered to provide adequate protection while minimizing the overall weight and impact on device usability.

Case Protection

For the MacBook Airs, the STM Dux case is designed to provide excellent drop protection. However, this case has proven to be problematic for several reasons. It is extremely heavy and significantly affects the device's hinge, making the laptop more cumbersome to use. Additionally, it is pricier than other hardshell cases on the market. Despite its shortcomings in terms of design and weight, the case does its job in terms of protecting the device from physical damage. The iPad Airs, on the other hand, come with a more stylish and functional case that offers a pleasant experience.

Financial Incentives

While high-quality cases are a key deterrent against physical damage, the district also employs a robust financial strategy to further motivate students to protect their devices. Repairs for damaged devices are charged as follows:

First Damage: $75 for an iPad Air and $100 for a MacBook Air Second Damage: $125 for an iPad Air and $150 for a MacBook Air Third and Subsequent Damages: $250 or the cost of repair/part, whichever is greater, for an iPad Air and $300 for a MacBook Air For all accessories, the cost of replacement is charged at full price Lost or stolen devices must be replaced at full price, even if they are covered under repair protocols

These costs are designed to be steep enough to discourage students from damaging their devices. The financial burden is not just on the students but also on their parents, who would have to pay these costly repairs from their own pocket. The prospect of facing the wrath of their parents, especially when it comes to large expenses, is a strong motivator for students to safeguard their devices.

Parental Influence

Another significant factor is the role of parents in influencing their children's behavior. Parents play a crucial role in doling out punishment and consequences, which can be highly impactful. Students are well aware of the financial strain their parents experience and fear the repercussions of damaging their devices. These concerns, combined with the high cost of repairs, effectively motivate most students to take good care of their devices.

Conclusion and Future Projections

The district's approach has proven to be successful, with very few incidents of damage reported. The cases have provided a good level of protection, and the financial incentives have further compounded the deterrent effect. We will continue to monitor the situation over the next few years to ensure that the program remains successful and effective. By combining high-quality cases and substantial repair costs, we have managed to create a comprehensive strategy to protect our students' devices.