Should technology be required in schools?

Most people would agree that technology in the classroom can benefit a student's educational experience. What is more contentious, however, is how to provide students with access to that technology so they can take advantage of new resources.

Several schools around the country have introduced mobile laptop labs, which can be carted from room to room as needed. This approach, while better than nothing, is not without its drawbacks, however. For one thing, it limits access to technology and doesn't guarantee a computer will be on hand at all times. Additionally, students cannot take the devices home with them.

Another approach that has found favor in recent years is the "bring-your-own-device" method, in which students bring their own laptop or tablet computers to school. This way, students can always have the PCs on hand in the classroom and take the same system home after school.

However, this too presents challenges, as not every student will be able to afford his or her own computing device. Furthermore, parents -- especially those with multiple children in school -- may be opposed to purchasing a new computer for each student.

Many schools may then favor a combination approach, in which students who prefer their own computers can bring them to class, while the school uses its own systems for other students. This strategy may not be ideal, but it could prove to be an effective way of getting valuable resources into the hands of all students.