e-Learninganywhere

anytime

e-Learning is learning that is supported or facilitated

by the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT).

At St Peter’s this means anytime, anywhere use

of Internet connected devices when required.

DOES MY CHILD NEED A DEVICE?All students in Years 7 – 13 are strongly recommended to bring a school laptop.

Students will be using laptops to enhance their learning in a variety of ways. For example:

• Using the school’s virtual learning network (Moodle) to view resources, do activities and upload assessments.

• Creating learning content in a variety of ways e.g. written documents, presentations and image creation.

• Conducting research to develop critical and analytical thinking.

• Communicating online with different learning communities.

• Using the Internet, as well as the school’s intranet and webmail.

With many exciting developments in technology continuously making an impact on how we source and use information, digital devices are now an important tool for learning and communicating. We want to see St Peter’s students using all the tools available to them to enhance their learning and achievement.

As such, we invite students in all year levels to bring their personal devices to school. The school recommends using a LAPTOP as being the most suitable device within the classroom. Students can supplement this, if they wish, with a tablet, ipad, smart phone or any Internet capable device that can assist learning. The school can offer you advice on suitable devices.

Our school’s investment in the latest infrastructure has enabled us to offer wireless access to the Internet anywhere in the school, while at the same time ensuring a safe environment for our students through the use of filters.

Our staff are embracing a myriad of exciting ideas using the digital tools available to them and are eager to share these with our students. We have expert in-house support for the use of devices for students and staff, facilitated by our Information Communication Technology Department.

We invite you to join us as we embrace the digital age and develop our utilisation of electronic devices to enhance the learning journey of our students.

HOW WILL IT IMPACT ONSTUDENT LEARNING?

Internet connected devices are an important 21st century learning tool. They engage students to make connections, overcome barriers of time and distance, facilitate shared learning communities and open up new and different ways of learning (NZ Curriculum).

ONLINE SAFETY, CITIZENSHIP AND SOFTWARE

• All staff and students will be required to read and sign a cyber-safety agreement, the basis of which is respect for self and others.

• Cyber-safety is a priority and an ongoing focus for St Peter’s.

• Insurance is the responsibility of families. Please check with your insurance company to make certain your device is covered while at school.

• To ensure effective use of the device please ensure it is fully charged overnight.

• Once students have received their user names and passwords, they can download Office Pro Plus from the school’s intranet for free. Our school is part of the Microsoft Student Advantage Program which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote for PCs and Macs.

• Students are familiar with their own devices and can connect them to the school’s wireless network independently.

• Students have instant access to resources via our filtered wireless network.

• Students to extend, communicate and share learning in a way that prepares them for the future.

• Anytime, anywhere access to Moodle, school webmail and personal drive.

• Anytime, anywhere access to the library, databases and catalogued web resources.

• Teaching and learning occurs in a blended environment where technology is integrated into the process of learning.

• Instant access to the school intranet calendars, timetables, attendance data, online academic reports and exam timetables.

• E-Learning opportunities fit superbly with the philosophies of the New Zealand, International Baccalaureate and Cambridge curricula.

• Family are familiar with devices and can support learning at home.

WHY HAVE STUDENT-OWNED DEVICES?

CHOOSING A LAPTOP

Selecting a laptop is a personal choice for the individual and family. Some families are Apple orientated and others Windows. The school has invested in an infrastructure that is not operating system specific to allow individuals to choose a device which suits them best.

The laptop chosen will be dependent on learning style, subject selection, and what is supported at home. Technology is continually evolving and so is the functionality of devices, thus the device of choice may change over time.

If you plan to purchase a new laptop St Peter’s currently recommends either an Apple or Microsoft based laptop with the following recommended minimum specifications:• 10” screen

• 6 cell battery

• 4GB memory

• 256GB hard drive

• Wireless internet capable

• Protective case or carry bag

All laptops must be named. Safe lockable storage will be available. Please also consider the weight of the laptop and the size of the person carrying it.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP - CONTACT:ICT Manager, Andrew Scott email: andrew@stpeters.school.nz Phone: 07 823 3759

Director of e-Learning, Jason Morgan email: jasonm@stpeters.school.nz Phone: 07 827 9899 Ext 614

www.stpeters.school.nz

TYPES OF DEVICES

Laptops (screen size 10” or greater): These devices have the greatest functionality in our current environment . This is the school’s primary device.

Along with a laptop students’ may also bring other devices to school such as:

• Smart Phones and iPod Touches: These devices have great functionality for creativity and portability but are limited due to a very small viewing area are not recommended as a primary device and are more suited to being a companion device.

• Tablets (screen size 9.7” or greater): These devices have great functionality for creativity and portability, with a usable screen size. However, there are currently limitations with these devices when accessing some Internet-based content used by the school and when uploading assignment files. In addition, there are some limitations around the availability of applications that may be required. These are not recommended as the students’ primary devices, but are useful as a companion device.