Digital Learning Convergence Goes Big as UDT Helps Transform Miami-Dade Schools

Imagine planning and deploying a whole new technology infrastructure for a population equal to a mid-size American city – one with thousands of buildings to be upgraded for 21st century wireless connectivity.

That was the challenge facing UDT as it embarked on its largest technology deployment to date, for Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the nation’s 4th largest education district. The district comprises more than 40,000 employees in 392 schools, serving more than 365,000 students.

The project grew to match the possibilities Miami-Dade began by seeking only a conversion from paper- to electronic-based teaching materials. But, the project soon expanded into full-on digital learning convergence. “Digital learning is more than just going from text to digital content,” said Henry Fleches, UDT’s Chief
Executive Officer. “It’s about transforming the classroom from a teacher-centric to a student-centric model, and enabling that project-based, collaborative-based learning in the classroom.”

So far, nearly 100,000 Miami-Dade students have received individual Intel -powered tablets – a key element in the success of digital learning convergence. Students equipped with 1:1 digital devices are more motivated and engaged using technology tools they already love, and they find new ways of learning with them.

“The devices have changed how I teach in the classroom,” said instructor Marissa Dominguez. Now she follows a discovery-based process in which she sets up a problem and students use their tablets to collaborate on a solution, pushing each other to learn. As a result, student engagement has skyrocketed.

UDT began with careful planning and a proof-of-concept
Starting with comprehensive research into the needs of all parties, UDT was present throughout the planning process. Even before receiving the formal contract, UDT implemented the full technology solution as proof-of-concept to demonstrate how it would work and its benefits. And, a UDT consultant was on hand to assist with professional development and accommodate teacher needs.

”We did a tremendous amount of research when we were looking into how we were going to deliver a solution for our customers in education,” said Daniel Rodriguez, UDT’s Chief Technology Officer. That research enabled UDT to transform Miami-Dade’s entire educational infrastructure, including:

• Updated wiring to support high-speed Internet
• A full digital convergence program with a 1:1 tablet device for each student
• Interactive boards in all classrooms
• Digital curricula and Web 2.0 tools
• Mobile computing technologies (both district- and student-owned)
• Cloud services
• Training and tech support to help teachers leverage the new technology

District officials were pleased with the flexibility of UDT’s ecosystem solution. Based on Intel and Microsoft technologies, it provided a secure computing environment to safeguard student and teacher information and protect users online.

Miami-Dade’s success can be yours, too
Industry peers are taking note of the education outcomes achieved in Miami Dade County Public Schools: “Other districts that have looked at what we’re doing are fascinated to see how engaged students are”, said Tony Cossio, UDT’s Vice President of Public Sector. “And that’s what it’s all about: getting students engaged and wanting to learn.”

Learn more about the success of Miami-Dade County Public Schools and UDT’s Digital Learning Convergence approach . And, when you’re ready to get started on your own transition to digital learning convergence, talk to UDT.

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