Alie
Ashryver

Hexnode amping up the classroom device management game for schools

Alie Ashryver

Mar 10, 2023

11 min read

Welcome, lovely people! It is a fresh new day, and we have yet another thread to mull about. Let’s skip the usual padding around and dive right in, shall we? Great!

The other day, I overheard my nephews, Phil and Tom, squabbling around, arguing over who got the shorter straw with hybrid learning. For context, Phil has to attend classes virtually, while Tom has to attend the same lessons in person as part of the hybrid learning model. So yes, it was a scream fest revolving around the difficulty of keeping up with the online assignments and the sheer willpower needed to keep from zoning out in the in-person classes. Well, the tension might have dissolved after an intense match of thumb fight and a tie-breaker pillow fight, but I was left thinking. Times have indeed changed. It really is a wonder how fast teaching methods have changed by adding technology into the mix. Over the past few decades, schools have actively incorporated technology into the teaching process, providing opportunities for a more creative and engaging educational experience.

Check out Hexnode to secure and manage your digital classrooms

Technology and schools over the years…

Technology first made waves in classrooms by introducing interactive whiteboards. Technically, these interactive whiteboards allow teachers to easily create visual and interactive learning experiences. Furthermore, they can display videos, animations, and other multimedia content, making lessons more engaging and interactive for students. Another example is the use of tablets, iPads and laptops. With these devices, teachers can provide online learning resources, access to virtual libraries, and a wide range of educational apps that encourage students to learn at their own pace and in their own way.

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Moreover, schools are now using multimedia to deliver educational content, such as video lectures, webinars, and online courses. These forms of media allow students to learn from educators who are not physically present, which can help to expose them to a broader range of viewpoints and teaching styles.

So, you see, technology sure knows how to weave itself into the very fiber of a system!

So, we incorporate technology, and then, that’s it, right?

Not exactly. We’ll see why. Technically schools handle a lot of data. The administrative department handles all this data daily. So naturally, there is a risk of a data leak and the likes. Not to forget, there is the added tension of IT guys running around fixing the issues for any device deployed in the different classrooms. So you see, be it students or devices deployed in a classroom, proper management is crucial for the teacher’s sanity! Classroom device management for the win!
So, let’s get going…

The need for classroom device management:

What indeed, is the need? While touching up schools with technology has its benefits, managing these devices within a school setting is not without its fair share of challenges. Implementing effective classroom device management strategies to ensure that students and teachers can use these devices efficiently and effectively is easily a priority. This we know, moving on…

Reason 1: Classroom device management offers security

One of the most important aspects of device management is security. With so many devices connected to school networks, it’s crucial to ensure that the school’s network is secure and that students and staff only have access to appropriate content.

Reason 2: Classroom device management keeps devices up-to-date

Another challenge with managing tech in schools is keeping devices up-to-date with the latest software and hardware upgrades. This can be a dragging task, especially when a school has hundreds or maybe thousands of devices to manage. However, it is essential to ensure that the devices are running optimally. Also, ensuring the devices are compatible with the latest learning software and applications is a priority.

Reason 3: Classroom device management ensures proper maintenance and repair of devices

Device management in schools also involves ensuring that devices are properly maintained and repaired when necessary. This includes regulatory checks, ensuring they are charged and in good working order, and providing technical support when needed. If devices are not properly maintained, they may break down or become unusable, thus impacting student learning.

Reason 4: Classroom device management enables admins to apply policies to ensure proper usage of devices

Schools must implement policies and procedures to ensure that students use technology appropriately and responsibly. So, with proper classroom device management, ensure that students are using devices for learning purposes and are not engaging in inappropriate online activities or cyberbullying. Accordingly, the policies should be communicated clearly to students and enforced consistently to ensure that technology is used responsibly and safely.

Reason 5: Classroom device management helps in deploying apps securely

Secure app deployment is important because it helps ensure that only approved and safe apps are installed on managed devices. Consequently, this reduces the risk of malware infections, data breaches, and other security threats that could compromise sensitive information or disrupt the normal functioning of the school’s IT environment. With the increasing use of mobile devices and apps in education, schools must implement secure app deployment policies and procedures to protect their students and staff.

And so…

Now, we know that managing technology in schools is a crucial task that requires careful planning, monitoring, and maintenance. It is essential to ensure that devices are secure, up-to-date, and properly maintained and that students use technology appropriately and responsibly. By implementing effective classroom device management strategies, schools can ensure that technology enhances the educational experience for students and teachers alike.

Do I have a suggestion to make for classroom device management?

Yes, no, maybe! Hold on, I’ll tell you what I think. Imagine a world where students are free to learn and explore without the fear of technical difficulties or security breaches. This is the world that Hexnode, a powerful device management solution, can help create for schools. And so, with Hexnode, schools can transform their classrooms into high-tech learning environments where students can fully immerse themselves in the learning process without the darkness of data breaches surrounding them. Hexnode’s advanced security features enable the schools to breathe a sigh of relief as they know that their networks and devices are secure. On that note, Hexnode makes it possible for students to explore the vast digital world securely and with confidence.

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Hexnode’s automated patch management and upgrade features ensure that devices are always up-to-date with the latest software and security patches. This ensures that students are always learning with the latest and greatest tools. Moreover, with Hexnode’s real-time device monitoring and remote troubleshooting capabilities, teachers and students can focus on learning without worrying about technical issues or downtime.

Hexnode also empowers schools to easily enforce policies and procedures that promote responsible device use, keeping students safe while they explore the vast digital world. With Hexnode, schools can set up boundaries that ensure that students are only accessing appropriate content, learning with the most up-to-date applications, and staying within the bounds of online safety and ethics.

But why Hexnode for classroom device management? Spill the tea…

You want a reason to choose Hexnode. Fine, I’ll give you ten! In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, schools need to adopt cutting-edge solutions to meet the ever-changing demands of the modern classroom. Chance a glance at why Hexnode is a catch worth the match…

Improved Security:

Hexnode offers robust security features that help schools protect their network and devices from security threats. With Hexnode, schools can enforce strict security policies, monitor device usage, and detect and respond to security threats, keeping students and teachers safe.

Enhanced Productivity:

With Hexnode, schools can automate routine tasks such as patch management and device updates, freeing up IT staff to focus on more strategic tasks. This results in improved productivity and reduced downtime, ensuring that students have access to technology when they need it.

Simplified and centralized Device Management:

Hexnode’s intuitive interface makes it easy for IT staff to manage devices, users, and policies in one central location. With Hexnode, schools can easily deploy devices, enforce policies, and troubleshoot issues remotely, saving time and resources.

Streamlined Learning Experience:

Hexnode allows schools to provide students with the latest software and applications, ensuring that they have access to the tools they need to succeed in today’s digital world. Additionally, with Hexnode, students can access their learning resources from anywhere, anytime, and on any device, creating a seamless learning experience.

Real-Time Monitoring:

Hexnode’s real-time device monitoring allows for quick identification and resolution of technical issues, reducing downtime and improving productivity. By providing instant visibility into device performance, Hexnode enables IT staff to address problems before they escalate, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted learning experience for students.

Remote Troubleshooting:

Hexnode’s remote troubleshooting capabilities are indeed remarkable. They allow IT staff to troubleshoot and resolve issues remotely, saving on travel and on-site technical support expenses. By leveraging Hexnode’s remote troubleshooting capabilities, schools can save significant time and money associated with travel and in-person support. This allows IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives that can have a greater impact on the school’s technology infrastructure and learning outcomes.

Policy Enforcement:

Hexnode’s policy enforcement capabilities are a key factor in promoting responsible and effective device use in schools. With this feature, schools can establish policies and procedures that encourage students to use devices solely for educational purposes, helping to create a positive and safe online environment. This helps to foster a culture of responsible and productive device use that encourages students to stay focused and engaged during learning activities.

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Secure App deployment:

IT admins of schools can rest easy and leave worries of secure app deployment behind with Hexnode. The IT team can easily deploy apps from a reliable source to the devices in bulk. Not to forget, Hexnode’s App catalog and Store layouts are a life-saver in this regard. They easily allow the admins to create a custom App Store and Play Store for the users in the school.

Customizable Features:

Hexnode’s customizable features offer a personalized and bespoke device management solution that caters to the specific needs of each school. Accordingly, with this feature, schools can tailor the Hexnode platform to their unique requirements, allowing for a fully customized solution that meets their specific needs. By offering this level of flexibility, Hexnode ensures that schools can design a device management solution that aligns with their goals and objectives. And so, schools can have greater control over their device management processes.

Automated reports, hassle-free auditing:

With Hexnode, schools can easily handle reports regarding device management. No need to run around trying to collect the compliance reports and such. The reports can be scheduled to be mailed to the concerned authorities at a set time.

Cost savings:

Hexnode’s advanced features and automation capabilities are a cost-saving game-changer for schools looking to streamline their device management processes. With Hexnode, schools can significantly reduce their IT overheads and operating costs, providing a cost-effective solution that delivers real value. This can translate to significant cost savings, as schools can optimize device management processes and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Whew! That was some list! See, Hexnode is a safe choice for device management in a school setting.

Also…

Well, you read about the reasons, but there’s still the question of what platforms Hexnode supports. No doubt, it’s a valid question! And the answer is that Hexnode supports all the major operating platforms including:

  • People’s choice – Windows
  • Business favorite – Apple
  • Mobile giant – Android
  • tvOS
  • Fire OS

Most devices that may or may not be deployed in a school setting are powered by one of the above operating systems. So, if it’s any of those devices, Hexnode’s got you covered!

Featured resource

Mobility management in the Classroom – Best practices

Have a look at how easy and convenient it is to practice mobility management in classrooms with Hexnode.

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The final stand…

There ain’t no doubt that this was one, loaded conversation. As refreshing as the older teaching methods might’ve been, it doesn’t change the fact that technology is here to stay. There’s no stopping it, so we might as well equip ourselves to keep up with it. If technology and devices are here to stay, then the next best thing to do is to manage them. And that is exactly what Hexnode offers to all industries, schools included.

Before we part, the last thing I’d like for y’all to remember is that Hexnode is the perfect choice for schools seeking a secure, efficient, and streamlined device management solution. Hexnode’s bucket-loads of features enhance productivity while empowering schools to provide a cutting-edge learning experience that prepares students for the digital future.

So, until we meet again….bye-bye!

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Alie Ashryver

Product Evangelist @ Hexnode. Gimme a pen and paper and I'll clear up the cloud of thoughts in ma head...

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