For the last few years we have been exploring different models of learning and the use of various technologies to improve and extend student engagement and achievement.
“It is important that we prepare our students for their future, not our past.”
On Tuesday 25June Year 4 parents were invited to a meeting to hear about our plans to implement a 1-1 iPad program in Year 5 from 2014. At the meeting Mrs Virginia Preddey (our Technology Coordinator) outlined how technology has the potential to engage students in ways not previously possible, to improve learning outcomes, to create new learning possibilities and to extend students’ interaction with their local and global communities. In her presentation, Mrs Preddey referred to current research as well as preparing our children with essential 21st century skills and the new Australian Curriculum.
The model for implementation is Bring Your Own Designated Device (BYODD), and as outlined at the meeting we are designating an iPad as the device required by all Year 5 children. Please note that the iPad will not be required until early Term 1, 2014.
The following information is provided as guide for parents:
Basic specifications:
.
· Device: iPad 4 Memory: 16G will be adequate - $497 (price as at June 2013)
(anything extra is parent’s choice)
· Case: A sturdy plain case. (I do not recommend the Apple smart case – easily slips off)
· Wi-fi at home
· Insurance: It is advised that you check your home and contents insurance - this may be a viable option for you.
All students and parents will sign an STA iPad user agreement prior to use. This agreement will include information about appropriate use of technology and the internet as well as procedures and rules for care of the iPad.
Applications:
Several applications (Apps) will be needed on the iPads throughout the year. The school will be purchasing these via Apple’s VVP (Volume purchasing Program). The school website will list all the required apps throughout year and we will be conducting a number of parent workshops/Bootcamps in terms 3 & 4 to assist parents in this area.
While a number of apps are free, we will be providing a redeem code for required Apps at the appropriate time, which means that you will be able to download these from the iTunes App Store at no cost.
It is also recommended that parents set up their child’s OWN iTunes account/Apple ID using the student’s DOW email address – NOT connected to parent’s account OR credit card.
The information above is intended to assist parents in understanding what is a minimum requirement for the 1-1 iPad program. Presently there are many offers available from a number of leading outlets and prices are always negotiable. Our advice is to not purchase the device until late in the year/when required as prices may drop later in the year when a more updated model may be released.
As a school we are very aware of the financial burden that this may place on some families and therefore will offer assistance to ensure that all children in Year 5 have an iPad. Parents are simply asked to contact the school office to arrange a time to meet with Mr Norris. You will not be expected to pay the Technology Levy of $120 if your child is in Year 5 2015. However the balance must be paid for any other children you may have in the school eg the Technology Levy for 2 or more children is $160. Therefore the balance of $40 would be payable.
Mrs Preddey has made an iPad support website - linked via the STA school website – TECHNOLOGY button (or go directly to www.statechnology.weebly.com) This was created as a support for parents. It contains information about our program, research articles, tips & tricks for iPad use, resources, FAQs & tips for parents. It also contains a BLOG which will document our iPad journey together.
A schedule of important dates, including parent workshops will be provided in Term 3 2013. Thank you for all the positive support we have received already about our program. In the meantime should you require further information, please don’t hesitate to contact either Mrs Preddey or Mr Norris.