Anchored in Management: How Mobile Device Management Systems Can Support Teachers

 

Many K-12 schools have a variety of devices to support instruction. Ever wonder how school systems manage to keep track of and maintain every device in their schools? In this blog, we will dive into Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems and discover how they can support teachers. 

What are Mobile Device Management Systems?

Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems help keep track of and control all available school devices. A benefit of MDM systems is that they allow schools to manage devices remotely. With MDM systems, schools can make sure devices are set up correctly, protect student information, and help track lost or stolen devices. MDM systems manage devices connected to the network, ensuring each device has the proper access, permissions, and security for student and teacher use. 

Popular MDM Systems for Schools 

1. Jamf School

Jamf School is an MDM system built specifically for managing Apple devices like iPads and MacBooks in education settings. It allows IT staff and teachers to remotely manage devices and push out apps requested by teachers. This system can manage the location of devices and keep track of any damages. They also have something called iBeacon Profile Assignment where students have access to academic content. Teachers can also use the Jamf Teacher app to manage student devices. 

2. Mosyle Manager

Mosyle is another MDM system for Apple devices.  Like, Jamf, it supports remote configuration and app management. Mosyle has great security features as well. They have a web filtering and security feature that is built for apple devices used in education. They also have great classroom management tools like Study Apps, App Lock, and Live Screen. Another great thing about Mosyle is that schools can share management of school ipads to parents and families outside of school hours. Parents are able to limit usage, filter browsing, and control apps on their child's device. 

3. Microsoft Intune for Education

Microsoft Intune for Education is great for schools using Windows devices or Microsoft 365. They focus on maintaining the health of devices in a cost-effective manner. With this MDM system, you can also assign student apps, control how classroom information is shared, and add school security requirements to devices and apps. 

                                           

How Can it Support Teachers? 

MDM systems may sound like something only a school's IT department should worry about. According to Ramig (2017), many MDM systems have evolved beyond basic IT functions to include teacher-friendly tools that make classroom device management easier and more efficient. Although your school's tech departments are put in place to make sure these things run smoothly, here are five ways that MDM systems can work to support teachers:

1. More Time for Instruction

MDM systems can set up devices with the apps, settings, and restrictions needed for instruction. Teachers can enjoy the benefits of having devices ready to go so that it does not get in the way of instruction. 

2. Classroom Management 

Some MDM platforms include tools that allow teachers to view student screens, lock devices during direct instruction, or push out websites and resources to student devices instantly. This kind of classroom management can help keep students focused and reduce off-task behavior during digital lessons.

3. Personalized Learning Opportunities

Frazier and Hearrington (2024) state that, “accessible content is crucial in online and blended learning as it ensures that all students can effectively access, engage with, and benefit from educational materials” (p. 71).With MDM, devices can be tailored to student needs. For example, accessibility settings or specific learning apps can be pushed to individual students or groups without the teacher needing to manually adjust each device.

4. Remote Tech Support

If a student’s device isn’t working properly, MDM allows the IT team to troubleshoot remotely, minimizing downtime and keeping students engaged. 

5. Security and Privacy

MDM ensures that student data is protected, apps are age-appropriate, and settings comply with district policies. Teachers can feel confident that the tools students are using are safe and secure.

                                                  

Teachers already manage a lot in their classrooms. Managing digital devices can add even more stress to the workload. Mobile Device Management systems can help lighten this load by providing tools that streamline device use, reduce distractions, and support personalized learning. According to Frazier and Hearrington (2024), it is important for teachers to to have support when adapting to online and blended learning environments. What is great about these systems are that many digital features teachers look for are already built into the MDM platforms. According to Ramig (2017), these tools are often already paid for and available as part of the system managed by the IT department. It is important for educators to know that these resources are available and that they have support in using it. Mobile Device Management Systems are not just in place to make the work load of the IT department lighter, it is also there to support teachers. 

References

Frazier, M., & Hearrington, D. (2024). The technology coordinator's handbook: A guide for edtech facilitators and leaders (4th ed.). International Society for Technology in Education.

Kiosk software. (2021, May 19). 10 ways mobile device management for education can help your school. [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRaSxB8Yj6Q

Microsoft education. (2017, January 24). Introducing microsoft intune for education. [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukrnCwcLvV8&t=1s

Ramig, R. (2017). Mobile device managers: not just for the IT department. Internet@Schools, 24(4), 7+. https://link-gale-com.ezproxy.montevallo.edu/apps/doc/A504460807/PROF?u=mont41605&sid=bookmark-PROF&xid=d1247a88

GoGuardian. (2021). How to use mobile device management in the classroom. [Online image]. Go Guardian. https://www.goguardian.com/blog/how-to-use-mobile-device-management-in-the-classroom