Closing The Connectivity Gap
Poor connectivity is still a problem in far too many schools, says Neil Watkins – and often, an unnecessary one
- by Neil Watkins
With the multitude of devices and technologies available to schools, the traditional classroom is changing; it’s becoming more collaborative, interactive and engaging. Yet according to the British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA) Tablets and Connectivity report from June 2015, only half of primary and two-thirds of secondary schools record having an ideal level of broadband connectivity, with limited improvements expected by the end of 2016.
In addition to broadband connectivity, the report also highlighted the importance of wireless networking connectivity. 41 per cent of schools currently do not have ideal broadband bandwidth, while 48 per cent do not have ideal WiFi capacity. This is an issue because without the necessary infrastructure, tablet provision and use may be restricted. While some schools have ensured that they have invested in wireless technology prior to their extensive use of tablets, others have substantial tablet provision, but still require improvements in wireless connectivity.
Internet connectivity varies by location, with some schools facing a much greater problem than others. For example, this is a well-publicised issue in rural areas, where schools are struggling to get fast internet because they can’t get their network provider, the government or their local authority to cover the cost of the manual labour involved with digging up the road to lay wires. However, there is now a 4G solution on the market that gives schools access to a 4G connection at a price that is just as affordable as fibre broadband. It also means that roads no longer need to be dug up, so disruption and costs are minimised.
A raw deal
From my experience, too many schools stick with what they have had in place for the past few years, even if it’s not ideal. Their view is that it’s too big a challenge to change things and they are generally nervous about making such a major decision. However, this shouldn’t be the case at all. If you find the right supplier, they should be able to work with you on a consultative basis to help achieve your aims and objectives without any risks.
Some schools have been persuaded to sign five-year deals for connectivity, but they’re quickly realising that this isn’t feasible, as technology evolves so rapidly. Something that’s suitable for a school’s needs in 2016 is likely to become outdated and no longer fit for purpose after a few years. I would always suggest that contracts should be three years long at an absolute maximum.
Of course, for many, reviewing internet connectivity every year is a pain, but what schools should be asking for is automatic annual increases in bandwidth. As a rough guide, you should plan on using two to three times more bandwidth in three years’ time than you’re using now.
If I could only offer one piece of advice, it would be to plan ahead. If you’re looking to buy a number of iPads next year, you should be asking what that is going to do to your bandwidth and WiFi network. I hear so many schools say “We bought 30 iPads, but they’re so slow!” Of course they’re slow; and in fact, unless you put in the right infrastructure they will destroy the network, because they regularly connect to the internet to check licencing.
Again, if you plan on switching service provider, pre-planning is key. Many take 120 days to establish a new connection. This is due to the demand in the country, which of course doesn’t only come from the education sector. If you leave it too late you’re likely to have to go with the same provider as you have always used and therefore you risk being in a poor negotiating position.
Think big
So, how much bandwidth do you need? Well, this varies. For example, the NEN guidance from October 2013 says by 2017 secondary schools should be asking for 297 Mbps and primaries 30Mbps, but to me, this sounds out of date already. We’ve had enquiries from schools asking about 1Gbps in secondaries and 100Mbps in primaries!
Ask the experts
It is evident that problems still exist when it comes to internet connectivity. Schools are further behind with their level of WiFi connectivity than they’d like to be, with only 52 per cent experiencing the ideal level. However, this is expected to rise to 67 per cent by 2016 and 89 per cent by 2020, so the future looks promising.
Teachers, and often the ICT staff within a school too, cannot be experts in every field, especially when it comes to particularly complex areas such as technology. As such, they need to seek valuable partnerships with external experts that can manage this process for them, making recommendations based on the school’s individual requirements.
Any good supplier will only charge you for the technology you need and won’t tie you into a lengthy contract, so you have the flexibility to grow and adapt as the sector changes and your school’s needs develop too.
About the author
Neil Watkins is managing director of DfE recognised IT procurement framework, Think IT
