Top 5.....Things to sort before BYOD

1. Infrastructure. Goes without saying, have you got broadband, proper wireless, lockable cabinets/rooms, filtering, a network that someone can use?

2. A learning management system. This does not have to be a 'LMS' - it could be a blog (see reasons I like Kid Blog), Wiki, Web 3.0 page, Evernote or Social Media page(s). A central class space may link to 10 other pages - or be a ‘one stop place’ but it is known by teachers, principals, students and families so that none of us get tangled up and lost in the InterWeb. 

3. A lead classroom teacher(s). Having capable leadership is important, but a teacher who can walk the talk is unquestionable.

4. Local Curriculum. Consider your school and its special features. What makes your school different and special? What's your thing? Maybe you follow a Inquiry, Writing or Reading programme throughout the school? The obvious question then becomes how BYO will effect (e or a? I never know...) these special features - don't throw the baby out with the bath water and get rid of what you already do well - add to it!

5. A review plan. You are sure that your BYOD initiative will be successful, otherwise you would not bother, but how will you know it is successful? If the proof is in the pudding, just what flavour will the pudding be? Your review plan may include collecting formative and informative assessment, questionnaires with families, teachers and students and statistics of just how many new devices get into the hands of learners. A Staff Development Plan needs to coincide with achieving your goals - more devices = more teacher PD!