As education adapts to the needs of the future, IT leaders are increasingly pivotal in transforming the learning landscape. The impact of technology spans every industry, creating new opportunities in fields such as STEM, artificial intelligence (AI), and esports. Additionally, technology has revolutionized student engagement in learning, skill development, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Engaging Students through Technology
Mat Holley, esports program manager at MSI, emphasizes the importance of exposing students to computer science and advanced technology. “When students are more engaged, they have better attendance, improved grades, and are better prepared for college and the job market. The enthusiasm is remarkable,” he notes. School boards are leading initiatives to enhance technology education, but they need to collaborate with IT leaders, education specialists, and industry professionals to ensure these programs are cost-effective and future-proof.
Hardware and Software Choices: Key to Success
The selection of hardware and software is critical in supporting technology initiatives. Holley cites a charter school district in Chula Vista, San Diego, where students engage in video design, broadcasting, AI, and music creation using high-end MSI laptops equipped with Nvidia graphics and Intel processors. This collaboration has led to the creation of one of the largest high school-run esports programs in the U.S.
“I’ve worked with schools at various stages of their technological journey, helping them build programs from the ground up,” Holley explains. “Though much of this is uncharted territory, the momentum is building.”
The Surprising Benefits of Esports
Esports programs have grown in popularity, surprising many educators with their positive impact on student engagement, especially among those who might feel excluded from traditional sports. These programs foster confidence and often lead participants to pursue studies in computer science and related technology fields. Holley highlights that there are no barriers to entry in gaming or computer science, making it accessible to a diverse range of students, including girls and BIPOC individuals.
“There is no barrier to entry to be a gamer, and this goes for computer science at large,” Holley states. As esports becomes integrated with various technology clubs, students are finding new opportunities to explore their interests and talents.
Addressing Challenges in Program Development
Despite the enthusiasm for technology programs, many school districts face challenges, primarily due to budget constraints. Other concerns include ensuring robust security, integrating new technology with existing networks, and transitioning from on-premises to cloud-based environments. MSI collaborates with educational institutions to meet their hardware specifications while ensuring seamless integration.
“With the rise of esports in schools, we work closely with districts to address price points and warranty needs,” Holley says. “We want to provide machines that excite students and support sophisticated esports titles.”
Streamlining Technology Integration
As computing technology evolves, IT leaders are finding it easier than ever to introduce new computer labs. Advances have made hardware lighter and more straightforward to deploy. However, many districts still rely on legacy systems. Holley emphasizes the importance of considering whether existing hardware can integrate with new solutions securely.
“Building a technology center for students involves ensuring that new hardware plays well with the old and that the transition to the cloud is secure,” he notes. By working closely with district IT departments, manufacturers can create tailored solutions that meet schools’ specific needs.
The Importance of Product Life Cycles
In the fast-paced tech world, product life cycles are short, necessitating collaboration with partners that provide dedicated educational hardware with longer life cycles. As cloud computing becomes the standard, staying informed about hardware and software changes is crucial for IT leaders.
MSI offers solutions such as the Cubi NUC and DP21, designed to simplify management and enhance security while supporting the latest technology trends. Their compact size and scalable design make them ideal for educational environments.
Conclusion: Equipping Students for the Future
Holley emphasizes that technology is essential for preparing students for future challenges. “We’re paving a path for these students into the future, and it’s crucial that we equip them with the necessary tools,” he says. As gaming and high-tech hardware become integral to educational plans, IT leaders must innovate in designing technology resources and collaborate with manufacturers and resellers to advance these initiatives.
