Devices for Learning K-6

Students in Kindergarten and Year 1 use Apple iPads as a resource to support the quality teaching and learning within the classroom. This allows their learning environment to be enhanced with modern and flexible teaching methods.

From Year 2 through to Year 6, students have access to a school supplied Chromebook in their classrooms. Chromebooks are used as a tool to introduce students to physical keyboards, further enhancing their technological skills using this simple but powerful laptop. This assists them in the transition to digital testing systems such as Naplan, and prepares them for Secondary School.

 

BYODD Chromebooks 7-9

The mandatory 'Bring Your Own Designated Device' program requires our secondary students in Years 7-9 to own and use Chromebooks for learning. Students may use a Chromebook only, which means no Windows, Mac laptops, iPads or other tablets in Year 7-9. This helps ensure uniform learning opportunities, software delivery, duty of care and equitable access to national testing. 

BYODD Chromebook Portal

St Matthews has partnered with LWT to provide an online portal that can be used to purchase Chromebooks that are pre configured to work within the school network.

The portal for chromebook ordering is accessible via the following link:
URL: smcs.orderportal.com.au

Chromebooks can also be purchased from other providers, however there will be a small fee to cover configuration and licence fees for these devices to be able to fully access the school network. This portal also has some Apple Laptops that can be purchased for use in Years 10-12.

NB: Any devices purchased through this portal will be delivered directly to your home address. While the school will be able to help with software issues and some minor repairs. Major repairs and warranty claims will need to go back through the original place of purchase or the manufacturer.

 

BYOD Program 10-12

Students may opt to continue using their Chromebook devices after the completion of Year 9, however are advised to seek advice from their KLA Coordinator regarding individual subject technological requirements. 

Students from Years 10-12 are a part of the 'Bring Your Own Device' program which includes Apple Mac, Windows or Chromebook laptops, that meet the ICT Device Requirements for the purpose of learning. Mobile phones, Apple iPads and other tablets are not recommended or supported to be used in the classroom environment. 

 

Devices for Learning

Today’s students think, connect and communicate differently from those who were at school even a few years ago. They live in an on-demand, technology-dependent world; they expect answers instantly and they know how to get them, to share them and enjoy what they learn. To inspire and engage this new generation of learners, governments, educators and experts are investing in the exciting opportunities of 1-to-1 devices for learning. They have recognised that schools can either capitalise on young people’s affinity for technology and prepare them for an increasingly technology-driven world, or struggle to engage them as technology advances.

Chromebooks and other Laptops serve as the catalyst in the transition from traditional learning to a student-centered, problem-solving, project-driven approach that will prepare students well for the challenges that lie ahead in their working lives. Devices enable learning to go beyond the school walls and provide access to worldwide resources. This access to the Internet, research and data collection devices, presentation software, sounds, and graphics makes the Chromebook one of the most powerful tools available in education.

 

Cyber safety

Cyber safety is the responsibility of everyone:

Develop safe practices within your own home; teach your child how to set up social networking accounts safely.

As a parent, learn which websites your children frequent and which websites are popular among kids and teens (Snapchat). Become familiar with the internet slang and common online acronyms.

Many students have more than 1 social networking account and/or email address. Becoming ‘friends’ on your child’s account is a start but some will set up another as well.

The eSafety website has many resources to help both parents and students deal with online security, safety and concerns. Please click on the following link to access this site: https://www.esafety.gov.au/