
As a concept, digital signage in K–12 school districts isn’t new. In the past, it might have been used in front of the school or in announcement areas, but it’s now being integrated into all spaces.
Today’s school staff can expect to find digital signage in hallways, classrooms and even gathering spaces such as gymnasiums, auditoriums and cafeterias. These displays are used in order to transmit important messages to teachers plus students, from morning announcements to emergency alerts.
Educators can also use them in classes or lab spaces to share content more easily with groups of students, and many districts are making the transition from projectors in the particular classroom in order to digital displays.
EXPLORE THE TIMELINE: See how classroom technology has evolved since 1659.
Here’s what K–12 IT leaders need to know about implementing their own electronic signage as a form of improved, modern communication.
Electronic Displays Are Easy for K–12 Districts to Install
One possible explanation for the digital signs trend within K–12 districts is that the implementation and installation of this technology is straightforward. IT teams with limited bandwidth may install many panels with the help of partners , and the particular process is not technically complex.
It’s important that IT groups tap partners or resources to help them understand the management of the panels moving forward.
Secure and Manage Displays with Strong Passwords and Internet
The administration and security of the digital shows varies, but there are commonalities that can ensure signage functions smoothly.
Typically, users broadcasting the messages will have different permissions to access signage throughout the particular school based on their needs and positions. Administrators will have the broadest access, while educators may only be able to access devices in a particular classroom .
For this reason, password security is key to keeping these displays from becoming hacked by students or threat actors. Strong passwords and multifactor authentication will ensure these devices remain protected.
Schools may also consider segmenting the devices out upon a separate virtual LAN for security and speed. Ultimately, the strength of a school’s network will determine how fast messages can be broadcast in order to staff plus students. This is an especially essential consideration with regard to districts that will want the option to use signage regarding real-time crisis alerts.
K–12 IT Leaders Can Choose from the Range associated with Digital Display Solutions
School districts are usually primarily implementing digital shows with HDMI capabilities. This isn’t limiting them, however; in addition to standard TV screens, there are interactive touch displays , large-format displays like video wall matrices and even weatherproof outdoor shows.
DIVE DEEPER: K–12 schools are usually bringing class room technology to outdoor learning.
Popular brands for electronic signage communications include Airtame , ScreenBeam , Kramer and Vivi . User dashboards and cloud capabilities help IT teams and administrators manage the digital displays from anywhere at any time.
Digital displays give schools the particular option to convey messages visually and in real time. In a world of fast-moving information, improved communication ensures everyone is on the same page when the information is vital.
This particular article is part of the “ ConnectIT: Bridging the Gap Between Education plus Technology ” series. Please join the discussion on Twitter simply by using the particular #ConnectIT hashtag.