DeSoto Co. develops 'Bring Your Own Technology' policy - Action News 5 - Memphis, Tennessee

(WMC-TV) - Pretty soon you might see teachers in DeSoto County start a lesson by asking students to pull out their smartphones or electronic tablets.

As schools try to add more technology during a time when they are receiving less funding, many will begin to consider allowing students to use devices they already own.

DeSoto County school leaders said they are developing a policy right now that could allow students to bring their own technology to the classroom.  

The pilot program will be tested in at least one elementary, middle and high school in the district.

The idea of the Bring Your Own Technology initiative is beginning to be used by schools across the country as a way they can save money by only buying devices for those who don't already own them.

"If they have internet on their cell phone, they can use it if they don't have a computer. It'll be kind of a good idea," said student Alexis Saulsberry.

Some school districts in North Mississippi and West Tennessee currently have policies that generally ban students from using their cell phones on campus, but do make exceptions when teachers want to use them for educational purposes.

"I don't go along with taking the cell phones as a learning tool, because I think they would use it for other reasons. I don't think they would just use it in the classroom, but I'm for them bringing their iPads and tablets," said parent Josephine Jamison.

Board approval must be granted in DeSoto County before the program is implemented systematically.

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