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MJPS BYOD Parent Session

Questions and Answers

MJPS BYODParent SessionQuestions and Answers

Thanks to the 40 parents that attended our recent parent sessions to find out more information about our Bring Your Own Device strategy. Listed below are the questions and answers that parents had regarding the strategy.

If you have any other questions, please email Matt matthew.ackerman@det.nsw.edu.au

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Will my child be disadvantaged by not having a device?

No. The school has 42 iPads which it will use to ensure all students have access to the same technology. The only difference is that these school iPads will not be able to be taken home each day. Whilst students may wish to finish tasks at home and show parents their work, it will not be a compulsory homework task.

This is a cost to parents. Can the school pay for these over time?

Whilst we acknoweldge this is a cost to parents, and a significant one, moving to a one to one teaching strategy is beyond our public school. With almost 170 students in Years 5 and 6 next year it would cost $55,250 to equip each child with a $325 iPad mini from JB Hifi (excluding a case).

Is it iPads or any device?

There are many different ways of implementing BYOD, but we are choosing only iPads. The reason is we have already 42 iPads in the school and they will assist with equity. Staff are also use to this platform and surveys have indicated it is the most common at home as well.

How are they being kept safe at school?

The school would purchase lockers in the quiet areas of each classroom. These would be accessed by students from 8.30am. Students would need their own combination lock. All recess, lunch and wet weather times would have the iPads locked in the lockers.

I'm worried about too much screen time

Teachers too are concerned about too much screen time. This is an additional tool for us to achieve our many outcomes in class. We will still have sports, the arts, library and many other areas where the iPad may not be used. Staff will be mindful of how much time is used each day on the devices.

I think the best way to teach Maths is with a chalkboard.

This is another tool in the teacher's toolkit to teach their subjects. What we teach is dictated by the NSW syllabuses, the methods of teaching vary according to the subject, age etc. Students will still be writing in exercise books, teachers will still be using hands on material and boards to teach concepts.

Will this replace all curriculum areas?

Whilst the iPad has applications in all curriculum areas, teachers will decide where it is appropriate to use. We will not be using technology for technology's sake. The iPad must be used to enhance learning, not just as a substitute for paper.

Can we lock apps to keep students on task?

At school we will only be using a select few apps. We understand that each iPad will have many other apps installed. Students will have training in the correct ettiquette inusing the Ipad in class. Students found to be using inappropraite apps will face consequences as listed in a signed agreement.

Does the school provide insurance?

No, parents are encouraged to seek their own private insurance for the iPad. The Department of Education does not insure any item brought from a students home.

What apps do they need and how much does it cost?

Currently we use only 4 or 5 apps that are open ended and creative. These include Popplet ($6.49), Explain Everything ($3.79), iMovie ($6.49) and Garage Band (free). It is anticipated that any extra apps that parents would have to purchase would be given plenty of advance notice.

Can the school assist with a bulk deal from a local company?

A parent has kindly offered to source iPads on our behalf. Whilst we know that Apple do not give large savings we may be able to assist parents with a bulk deal.