With technology developing at such a fast rate, it is easy to feel a little overwhelmed and unsure about its possibilities. This information sheet aims to help parents with the transition into the Bring Your Own Designated Device program at St Monica’s.

In 2020,  we will maintain the current implementation process for Years 4-6.

Should the purchasing of an iPad place a burden on a family’s finances please speak to Carmel Maguire, as soon as possible. We do have a small bank of iPads available for use by families experiencing difficulties in Years 4 to 6.

Year 3 students will have access to a bank of iPads to be shared throughout the week. As we did this year the students in Year 3 will have an option to bring their own device if they wish however this will not be required until early Term 1 following a parent information session. 

Why BYODD?

With the National School STEM Education Strategy (2015) and the development of the Australian National Technologies Curriculum, technology subjects have become a focus in education. Consistent with this research, industry surveys show that STEM literacy is increasingly becoming part of the core capabilities that Australian employers need. In order to carry out authentic learning tasks with technology, it is important students are equipped with the right tools. The school has iPads available to students however the CE has a policy that all IT hardware be replaced every 5 years if we want access to technical support for hardware. This creates a big cost to the school and still does not provide the ideal 1:1 ratio of students to devices. Our school IT budget is also going towards apps for school owned devices, new laptops, Wi-Fi and other technologies like robots and STEM resources. By implementing the BYODD program, students have the tools they need to engage in individualised learning and having access to school work at home. We will also be reporting on Technology outcomes from the Australian Curriculum in our school reports in 2019.

What apps will my child need for school?

The school does not provide apps for BYODD devices. Parents will need to download school required apps at home. This will mean the app is licenced to the child and not the school. A list of apps is currently being compiled by the teachers for publication

What are the technical requirements of BYODD at St Monica’s?

Minimum Specifications if purchasing 

We are asking students to bring Apple iPad devices only.  If purchasing, we are recommending Education IPAD WI-FI 32GB. This is the ideal model however other iPad models will be compatible. Unfortunately, the earlier iOS systems no longer work as paps can not be updated. The iPad must have a durable cover, preferably with a keyboard.

Will the school cover any damages?

The school takes no responsibility for breakages or damage. We encourage families to include the iPad under their home and contents insurance cover.   For insurance, parents could try https://www.insurance4that.com.au/

Where do I go if there is a problem with my iPad?

For minor problems relating to software please see Mr Evans or Mrs Richards who will forward issues onto the CE Tech support team. Issues relating to hardware will need to be looked at by the Apple store (or place of purchase).

Will the iPad be safe at school?

According to the student agreement, students will only use their iPads during supervised class sessions. During recess and lunch iPads will be put away and the classroom or area will be locked. In the event of wet weather, students will be permitted to use iPads under strick teacher supervision. Students are not permitted to use their iPads before or after school.

How often do students use the iPad at school?

The iPad is used as one tool for learning. It is used for tasks such as research, creating projects, coding and using app tools. It will be used in conjunction with exercise books, reading books, laptops etc. Students will not be working on the iPad for long periods of time as the school day is broken into a variety of activities. Time on the iPad will vary depending on tasks, so it’s best to speak to your child’s teacher if you have any concerns.

How can I manage screen time at home?

Families should sit down and come up with some shared rules about using the iPad at home. There are ways you can restrict settings on the iPad to stop children from accessing the iPad, or certain apps, at certain times. I strongly recommend the following options are implemented.

Set password protected restrictions on the iPad in General Settings. The password can be different from the one your child uses to unlock the iPad (something we can cover in the workshop early next year).

• Family Sharing through Apple – allows parents to create an account for their children that limits their access. Visit their website for more information https://support.apple.com/en-au/HT201060

Is my child ready for their own iPad?

We understand the angst some parents feel when providing their child with their own iPad. Before students can bring their iPad to school, we educate them about the risks of technology and teach them to be responsible digital citizens. We also ask that every student signs a Student Agreement that outlines the acceptable use of technology. Parents will also be asked to sight and sign the agreement. This is will be done at the beginning of 2020. We will also run a parent support session early next year to assist with further queries. 

More Information for Parents: http://www.ipadbootcampforparents.com/  

Apple Support for iPad Troubleshooting: https://support.apple.com/ipad.