This page is designed for schools to discuss the technical implementation and any associated issues with the use of the iPod Touch in the classroom.
Authenticating Users
I know, I hate barriers too, however, the issue has arisen recently about how we "... adopt and enforce a policy to monitor online activities of minors," per the requirements of CIPA. What are you doing in your schools?
Acceptable Use Policies (AUP)
- School AUP 2.0 - Resources tagged by David Warlick for helping setup an AUP that meets 21st century learning needs.
Wireless/Network Access
District-Wide Solutions
- Our district uses Microsoft Active Directory and an 8e6 filter. Currently, filter student Internet access by the device's Wi-Fi (MAC) address. We are exploring options to allow for authentication (student login/password) through the iPod Touch.
- Setting up multiple VLANs over the district's wireless can allow for different levels of access/filtering without the need for identifying each an every device via MAC address. For example, you could setup three different VLANS (Staff, Student, Guest). Leave the guest network completely open, but the most heavily restricted in terms of bandwidth and filtering. Secure both the student and staff networks with a password, so you can differentiate between school devices and outside devices.
Ad-Hoc Solutions
- Initially, to support the wireless demands of a classroom set of iPod Touches, we purchased an Apple AirPort Extreme to go with each cart. We are in the process, however, of updating wireless infrastructure district-wide which will make this unnecessary in the future.
Filtering and CIPA
- Check out MOBICip. This company provides a way to ensure that iPods taken home by students still go through school filters.