Microsoft Surface Devices in Education

Microsoft Surface Devices in Education: Licensing Overview

• Microsoft Surface devices require Windows 10/11 and Microsoft 365 Education licenses.
• Microsoft 365 Education A3/A5 plans include necessary apps and management tools.
• Education customers may benefit from academic licensing discounts.
• Intune for Education enables easy management of Surface devices in schools.

Microsoft Surface Devices in Education

Integrating Microsoft Surface devices into educational environments represents a significant evolution in modern learning.

Microsoft has meticulously designed the hardware and software to integrate seamlessly into classrooms, enhancing the learning and teaching experience.

This article explores the various licensing structures, deployment options, and benefits that Microsoft Surface devices offer to educational institutions, ensuring they have the right tools to create a transformative learning environment.

Device and Software Integration

Microsoft Surface devices are more than laptops or tablets; they are educational tools that provide a cohesive learning experience for students and teachers alike.

By combining Surface hardware with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365 Education, educators are equipped with the right ecosystem to facilitate better learning outcomes.

Benefits of Surface Devices in Education Include:

• Enhanced Learning Experience: By integrating Microsoft Surface with Windows 11, students can utilize various tools that enable more interactive and engaging learning. Microsoft Teams and other collaborative apps encourage students to participate actively in class discussions, regardless of whether they are learning in person or remotely.
• Consistency Across Classrooms: With a standardized set of devices and software, students and teachers can consistently communicate and collaborate, whether in a hybrid or a traditional classroom environment. Consistent software and device access means fewer disruptions and a more streamlined learning experience.

For example, the Microsoft Classroom Pen allows for natural handwriting, helping students comfortably engage with lessons and interact with content directly on the screen. It is also a great tool for math, art, and science activities, providing students with a more hands-on and intuitive way to complete assignments.

Hardware Options for Educational Use

Microsoft provides a range of Surface devices designed to cater to different needs in the educational setting, with Surface SE specifically crafted to provide affordability without sacrificing key features.

Below are some of the most common Surface devices used in education:

1. Surface SE: A cost-effective device tailored for students, featuring:

• Long battery life, ideal for day-long learning.
• Rugged build quality for handling frequent student use.
• Essential connectivity ports that support external accessories.
• Example Use Case: This device is suitable for elementary and middle school students who need a reliable device for everyday tasks such as attending virtual classes, accessing study materials, and completing homework assignments.

2. Surface Go: More versatile than the Surface SE, featuring:

• Lightweight design for increased portability.
• Supports various educational apps that enhance learning.
• Example Use Case: Perfect for high school students who need portability for moving between classes and versatility for multitasking between note-taking, research, and group projects.

3. Surface Pro: A powerful hybrid for both educators and students who need:

• Superior performance and multitasking capability.
• High-resolution display for creative work such as graphic design or presentations.
• Example Use Case: This device is ideal for teachers and college students engaged in more advanced and creative coursework that requires a powerful device for graphic editing, video creation, or technical computing.

4. Surface Laptop: A traditional laptop that offers:

• The full-sized keyboard is ideal for writing assignments and extensive research.
• Better CPU performance for intensive educational applications.
• Example Use Case: This device is great for educators and administrative staff who need a reliable and comfortable way to prepare lesson plans, grade assignments, and manage school data.

These hardware options ensure that educational institutions can select the right tools for their budget and student needs, allowing them to maximize productivity and learning outcomes.

Read how to qualify for Academic discounting.

Software Licensing Tiers

Different levels of Microsoft 365 Education licensing support Microsoft Surface devices for education, offering varied levels of access to software tools, features, and support.

These licensing tiers are designed to fit the different needs of educational institutions:

1. Microsoft 365 A1:

• This is a basic, cloud-based license.
• Includes essential applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint online.
• Ideal for schools looking to reduce costs and ensure that students have the essential productivity tools.
• Example Use Case: Suitable for schools that primarily use web-based applications and want a cost-effective solution for providing students with basic productivity software.

2. Microsoft 365 A3:

• Adds desktop versions of Microsoft applications, making them available even when offline.
• Includes advanced security features to safeguard sensitive student data.
• Suitable for schools that need full application access and enhanced security.
• Example Use Case: This is recommended for schools that need offline access for students and staff and that require better security measures to protect sensitive school and student data.

3. Microsoft 365 A5:

• The most comprehensive licensing tier, adding features like advanced security and analytics tools.
• Ideal for schools wanting maximum protection from threats and insights into user engagement.
• Integrates tools like Microsoft Defender for even better device management and safety.
• Example Use Case: This is ideal for institutions that need a highly secure environment, especially those managing large amounts of personal and confidential data. The analytics tools also help administrators make data-driven decisions to improve educational outcomes.

Choosing the appropriate licensing level is crucial for ensuring institutions get the right features for their needs and budgets. Institutions should evaluate their needs based on the level of access to tools and security features and whether they need advanced analytics to measure student and teacher performance.

Educational Benefits and Features

Microsoft Surface devices create tangible benefits for teachers and students, enabling an interactive and engaging learning atmosphere.

Teaching Enhancement

Teachers who use Surface devices can significantly improve their productivity and teaching experience. Key benefits include:

• Time-Saving Features: Tools like Microsoft Teams and OneNote streamline classroom communication and help teachers organize their lesson plans effectively. Teams allow teachers to set up virtual classes, assign work, and communicate with students in one place.
• Built-in Inking Capabilities: The integrated pen allows teachers to annotate documents or present live notes, mirroring the traditional classroom feel. For example, teachers can solve math problems live on-screen or provide feedback directly on student assignments.
• Flexible Teaching Environments: Surface devices can be easily carried between classrooms or used for remote teaching, accommodating various learning styles, in-person or online. Teachers can transition seamlessly between classrooms, libraries, and home environments while maintaining access to all their teaching resources.
• Interactive Lessons: Teachers can use apps like Microsoft Whiteboard to create interactive lessons that involve the entire class. Students can join from their own devices, making remote or hybrid classes more cohesive and inclusive.

Student Advantages

Surface devices also offer several notable benefits to students, such as:

• Mobility: Lightweight designs make it easy for students to carry their devices from class to class, enabling learning from anywhere. This mobility ensures students can easily transition between different learning environments, such as classrooms, study groups, or homes.
• Engagement through Versatile Modes: Students can switch between laptop, tablet, and studio modes to adjust the device to suit different learning activities, such as note-taking, researching, or presenting. This versatility supports different learning styles, allowing students to use the mode that best suits the task.
• Enhanced Active Learning: Tools like Flipgrid or Microsoft Whiteboard facilitate collaboration, enabling students to engage more deeply with their peers and the content. Flipgrid, for instance, encourages students to share video responses and reflections, fostering a more active learning environment.
• Individualized Learning: Surface devices allow for personalized learning paths, where students can move at their own pace through coursework using tools like Microsoft OneNote to organize notes, assignments, and study materials in a way that makes sense for them.

For example, a student could use a Surface Go in laptop mode to take notes during a lecture and then switch to tablet mode to sketch concepts during a group project.

They could also use Immersive Reader to better understand complex texts, which is especially helpful for students with different learning needs.

Licensing and Deployment Options

Educational institutions have multiple options for acquiring and deploying Surface devices.

Choosing the appropriate deployment option is vital for ensuring efficient roll-out and effective management of these devices.

Institutional Licensing

Licenses for Surface devices can be acquired through several channels, including:

• Volume Licensing Agreements allow institutions to procure multiple licenses at reduced rates, providing scalability. This is particularly advantageous for larger institutions that need to deploy hundreds or thousands of devices.
• Microsoft Store for Education: Institutions can purchase devices and software directly from Microsoft with educational discounts. The store also offers consultation services to help institutions determine which products best suit their needs.
• Authorized Education Partners: These partners can provide personalized support and pricing tailored to an institution’s specific needs. They can also help with deployment strategies, ensuring that the devices are ready for use right out of the box.

Shape the Future Program

The Shape the Future program offers discounted device licenses in eligible markets to K-12 institutions. This program ensures that more schools can benefit from technology while effectively managing budget constraints.

Key benefits include:

• Reduced Licensing Costs: Providing significant cost savings for device licenses. This allows schools with limited budgets to access high-quality technology.
• Scalable Device Strategy: This strategy helps schools provide more students with access to technology, promoting an inclusive learning environment. By reducing costs, schools can allocate resources to provide each student with a personal device, bridging the digital divide.

The Shape the Future program is especially impactful in underserved communities, where budget constraints can prevent schools from adopting modern technology.

Cost Management and ROI

Return on investment (ROI) is often a top consideration when investing in technology. Surface devices and Microsoft software offer tangible financial benefits for educational institutions.

Financial Benefits

• Reduced IT Management Costs: Integrating Microsoft Surface devices with Intune for Education allows for easier device management and centralized updates, reducing the workload for IT departments. Fewer IT staff are needed to maintain and troubleshoot devices, reducing overall costs.
• Zero-Touch Deployment: Institutions can deploy devices without manual setup, saving time and reducing labor costs. Devices can be configured remotely, allowing them to be ready for use straight out of the box.
• Elimination of Additional Software Requirements: Since Surface devices come equipped with essential software, there is no need for additional purchases. This means lower overall software costs and fewer compatibility issues, ensuring a smoother learning experience.

The financial benefits are not limited to cost savings; they also include efficiency gains that lead to better educational outcomes, ultimately providing value beyond the initial investment.

Student Discounts

Microsoft also provides discounts directly to students and educators:

• 10% Discount on Select Surface Devices: Students and educators can use these discounts when purchasing Surface products for personal use. This discount helps make premium technology more accessible.
• Free Microsoft 365 Education Access: Students are eligible for free access to the basic Microsoft 365 Education tools, which include popular applications like Word and Excel. This ensures that every student has access to the tools they need to succeed academically, regardless of their financial situation.

Security and Management

Security is paramount in educational environments, especially when managing sensitive student data. Microsoft Surface devices are built with chip-to-cloud security, providing a secure platform for teachers and students.

Administrative Control

IT departments in schools benefit from several management features, such as:

• Zero-Touch Deployment: Devices can be pre-configured for individual students, reducing setup time and IT effort. This makes it easy for schools to scale their technology rollouts without overwhelming their IT teams.
• Centralized Device Management: IT administrators can manage devices from a central dashboard through Microsoft Intune, making updates and applying security policies seamlessly. This centralization also allows IT staff to quickly address issues or apply necessary patches, minimizing downtime.
• Built-in Security Features: All Surface devices come with Windows Defender, providing consistent protection without additional software installation. This built-in security ensures that devices are protected from malware and other threats immediately, simplifying IT management.

Compliance and Protection

Microsoft Surface devices are designed to meet educational privacy requirements, ensuring compliance with regional and national privacy regulations. Built-in features include:

• Advanced Threat Protection: Tools like Microsoft Defender ATP help protect against malware and cyber threats. This protection is especially important in an educational context, where students and teachers increasingly use cloud-based services and share sensitive information online.
• Parental and Privacy Controls: These controls ensure student data privacy while giving parents more control over how their child uses the device. For example, parents can monitor screen time or restrict certain types of content, ensuring a safe learning environment at home.

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Implementation Support and Resources

Microsoft offers a variety of resources and support options to help institutions integrate Surface devices into their curriculum effectively.

Technical Assistance

Microsoft Education Experts provide comprehensive technical assistance, from deployment support to post-implementation troubleshooting. Institutions can access:

• Deployment Assistance: Help with installing and configuring devices within the school network. Microsoft ensures that schools have the infrastructure needed to support their technology investments.
• Professional Development Resources: These include webinars, training sessions, and online courses to help teachers use their new technology effectively. These resources help teachers integrate technology into their lessons, leading to better learning outcomes.
• On-Site Support: For larger deployments, Microsoft may also provide on-site assistance to ensure that devices are properly set up and integrated into the school’s existing systems.

Training Resources

Microsoft also provides access to a wide array of training resources for educators:

• Professional Development Materials: Guides and videos that help teachers understand how to best use Surface devices and Microsoft tools in their classrooms. Teachers can access step-by-step tutorials and lesson plans tailored to their subject areas.
• Community Support Networks: Microsoft’s online communities provide opportunities for educators to connect and share best practices, tips, and lesson plans. These communities provide a platform for collaboration and idea-sharing, helping educators learn from one another and improve their teaching practices.
• Microsoft Educator Center: This platform offers free resources, training, and professional development courses for educators to enhance their skills. It includes courses on using Microsoft Teams for virtual classrooms, implementing STEM education, and more.

Future-Ready Education with Microsoft Surface

Microsoft Surface devices in education represent more than technology; they embody a comprehensive approach to fostering modern learning environments.

The key lies in strategic implementation: choosing the right licensing tier, understanding the deployment options, and fully leveraging Microsoft’s support and training resources.

Key Steps to Implementing Surface Devices:

1. Evaluate Institutional Needs: Understand how many devices are required, the usage scenario, and which licensing tier is best suited. This evaluation should consider the institution’s specific educational goals, such as increasing student engagement or enhancing digital literacy.
2. Select the Appropriate Licensing Model: Depending on whether the priority is advanced security, offline capability, or cost savings, institutions must carefully choose between the A1, A3, and A5 tiers. Schools with tight budgets may opt for A1, while those needing comprehensive security and analytics may prefer A5.
3. Deployment and Integration Planning: Consider the infrastructure needed for smooth device deployment, including network requirements and device management tools. Schools should also plan to train teachers and IT staff to use the new technology effectively.
4. Support and Continuous Improvement: Utilize the available support from Microsoft, including technical assistance and professional development, to ensure that teachers and students maximize the devices’ potential.

Surface devices provide a scalable and sustainable technology ecosystem, supporting schools in meeting the requirements of traditional and hybrid learning scenarios. With flexible licensing options and discounted programs like Shape the Future, Microsoft ensures that educational institutions can maintain cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency while keeping their eyes firmly on the future of education.

By investing in Microsoft Surface devices, institutions lay the foundation for a connected, inclusive, and forward-thinking educational experience that benefits educators and students. It is not just about hardware—it’s about transforming education with the right blend of tools, infrastructure, and support.

The future of education lies in embracing flexible, secure technology designed for modern learners. Microsoft Surface devices are leading the way in making that future a reality.

FAQs

What are the licensing requirements for Microsoft Surface devices in schools? They require a Windows 10/11 license and Microsoft 365 Education, often included in educational plans like A3 or A5.

Are academic discounts available for Surface devices? Microsoft provides academic pricing and discounts for Surface devices and software licenses for educational institutions.

Which Microsoft 365 plans are suitable for education? Microsoft 365 Education A3 and A5 plans offer the necessary apps, services, and management tools for schools.

Do Surface devices come with pre-installed software? Most Surface devices have Windows pre-installed, but schools may need additional Microsoft 365 licenses.

Can schools manage Surface devices centrally? Intune for Education allows IT admins to manage multiple Surface devices centrally, making setup and maintenance easy.

How does Intune for Education simplify device management? It allows easy configuration and application distribution, helping to deploy, manage, and secure Surface devices.

Is Windows Autopilot supported on Surface devices? Yes, it is. It helps set up new Surface devices efficiently with minimal IT effort.

Can students use their Surface devices off-campus? Yes, licensed Surface devices can be used on and off campus and can access educational applications and services.

Are there additional costs for using Microsoft Teams on Surface devices? Microsoft Teams is included in Microsoft 365 Education plans, so there is no additional cost for schools that use these licenses.

What are the key benefits of Microsoft 365 Education for Surface? Microsoft 365 Education includes Office apps, collaboration tools like Teams, and device management features, making it ideal for Surface devices in education.

Do Surface devices support remote learning tools? Yes, Surface devices work well with Microsoft Teams and OneNote, providing a suitable remote and hybrid learning platform.

How do I purchase licenses for Surface devices in education? Licenses can be purchased through Microsoft authorized resellers or Microsoft’s Volume Licensing for Education.

Can Surface teachers and students use devices? Surface devices are versatile for teachers and students, supporting teaching tools, content creation, and collaboration.

What are the security features available for Surface devices? Surface devices feature built-in security like Windows Hello, BitLocker encryption, and management through Intune to ensure data safety.

Are Surface devices compatible with other educational software? Surface devices run Windows, making them compatible with various educational software, including specialized learning tools.