Reliable internet and Wi-Fi in schools should be top priority

Key points:

Connected Nation’s 2022 Report on School Connectivity notes that one-third of school districts–23.5 million students–still need improved access to the internet and digital learning. Without access to reliable internet and Wi-Fi-dependent devices, students and teachers face disadvantages, and schools can have a hard time meeting their educational goals.

Let’s look at why that is–and what can be done to ensure connectivity in every classroom.

Disadvantages caused by poor internet and Wi-Fi connectivity

Schools are turning more and more to technology and devices to support e-learning goals, life skills, and instructive and fun activities.

Poor connectivity–such as dead zones, dropped signals, or long buffering times–can mean:

• Students face obstacles completing classwork
• Students lack tech-related skills and digital literacy, especially if the classroom is the only place they have access to Wi-Fi technology
• Educators can’t supplement their teaching with online resources
• Stress levels rise if issues happen during online testing
• Staff have issues completing tasks
• Parents have trouble communicating with schools