Since the launch of Apple’s iPad, in 2010, technology in the classroom has grown in popularity, and grabbed the attention of the masses.

With ever increasing numbers of children having access to mobile devices in the home environment, and the majority of households having a Wi-Fi network in place, pupils, teachers and parents expect to see the same services in the school environment. A wireless network providing ubiquitous connectivity is imperative to enabling 21st Century digital learning.

Wireless and mobile device technology is allowing teachers and their pupils to expand the teaching and learning experience away from the restrictions of the traditional classroom. Today’s students’ expectation of technology means that they now demand quick access to digital content and online resources, allowing them to work independently.

Although many schools are yet to achieve this standard and require guidance on how to gain the most from their budgets as well as how to use wireless technology to its fullest potential.

With this in mind, Xirrus partnered with Academia, to survey IT decision makers from 100 UK schools, investigating the adoption of wireless networks, exploring the view on Government support for digital learning and examining how schools are sharing best practices.

Some of the key findings from the report included:

• 94% currently have Wi-Fi installed and 72% made the investment in 2013
• 41% invested in new laptops or tablets before introducing a new wireless network
• Common wireless pain points include issues with supporting high numbers of users (31%) and achieving coverage across their school’s entire site (30%)
• Two in five schools said their current Wi-Fi offering doesn’t adequately match their investment in classroom technology
• Only 3% receive grants or donations to help them share ICT best-practice with other schools

Investment in IT can take a large portion of a school’s budget, meaning that comprehensive planning and considerations are essential to ensure schools truly benefit and transform learning with the use of mobile device and wireless technology.