Starting from 2022, all Year 9 students must have a suitable mobile device such as a Chromebook or laptop to use in class. Activities in class will often involve the use of mobile devices to keep notes, collaborate with others and access online resources. Mobile devices and ICT are now the pens and paper of our children’s world.

In accordance with Glenfield College’s Strategic Plan 2020 and beyond, it is expected that all Year 9 students will have their own devices to utilise as part of their learning programme. We will operate in a blended learning environment where a computing device is just one of many tools students will use for learning each day. While online and digital learning is important, Glenfield College students will also learn through paper-based books and resources, handwritten tasks, group discussions, hands-on practical tasks and physical activities.

We are able to support multiple devices, Mac and PC; however, it is expected that a Chromebook will be the most effective device in the junior school. Please note that no further software purchases will need to be made as students will use open source tools. It is important that the device is fit for purpose and meets the minimum specifications as outdated, poor quality or shared devices will make it difficult for students to have an effective learning experience. As the student progresses through the school, a laptop/notebook is the most effective device, especially at the senior levels when students may opt for subjects that need more specific software. The staff will be able to advise on this when the time comes.

What device should we consider?

Minimum Recommended Specifications

The key requirements are that it should:

- Be able to connect to wireless networks and use the Google Chrome browser.
- Have a processing capacity that enables the creation and manipulation of text and data.
- Have a minimum screen size of 10 inches (13-14 inches is preferable).
- Have a battery life of at least 5 hours (please note that some laptops fall well short of this. We do not provide charging facilities at school).
- Lightweight, portable and durable.
- Have anti-virus software – this is essential to protect the data on the device and to prevent the spread of malware.
- Have a protective case.

Please note that we will provide help to connect to the school WiFi network if needed. Beyond that students will need to take responsibility for their own devices for problem-solving and troubleshooting.

Software

Students will be able to achieve much of what they need to do using open-source tools and Google Apps. For this reason, it is important for the device to have an up-to-date operating system and a modern browser.

Accessories

Students will need suitable headphones and a solid protective case for their Chromebook/Laptop/Notebook.

Advantages of Student-Owned Mobile Devices

There are many advantages to students bringing their own devices to school. More obviously, students are able to connect with an unlimited selection of resources. Other advantages include:

Quick research.
Collaboration of work with other students as well as the ability for staff to provide feedback.
Photo and video recording of experiments, speeches, field trips and assignments.
Access to online learning resources such as Reading Plus and Education Perfect.
Multimedia presentation of work.

Teacher Professional Development

Despite what students may say, they are not automatic experts in all things technology. We need to assist them in how to use technology in ways that assist them with their learning. Our teaching staff are constantly engaged in training sessions on how they can use technology to enhance teaching and learning at Glenfield College.

School Infrastructure

At Glenfield College, we have a modern, high-quality information technology infrastructure. We regularly upgrade our equipment to provide fast and reliable WiFi in every classroom.

Google Apps for Education

Google Apps for Education is the preferred platform at Glenfield College. This allows us to be able to share information within the college and beyond. Google Apps for Education is a cloud-based platform that allows users to create and share documents online making the information available at school, as well as at home, as long as there is an internet connection. Google Apps for Education is free for schools and does not contain advertising anywhere within it. Many New Zealand schools are using Google Apps, including some of our feeder Intermediate schools, as well as many of the world’s universities.

What Does This Mean for the Students?

- Students will be given a school Google email account with their own password.
- Students will be able to collaborate on documents with other students and staff.
- Students will be expected to be responsible digital citizens, their work and communication through the Google platform will be able to be tracked.
- When students leave Glenfield College their Google accounts will be deleted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a smartphone a suitable device?

A phone is not suitable as the main device for learning. It may be used in class for some activities with teacher permission.

Will students be spending all their time on a device?

A device is just one aspect of classroom activities. They will be used as part of the mix that makes up good teaching and learning.

Will the students share devices with others in the class?

No. It is their device and students are not permitted to share. This is for their protection.

How will Glenfield College ensure that cyberbullying is not occurring?

The College’s WiFi will block access to certain websites, and all students will sign an ICT User Agreement when they enrol at the College. Any cyber-bullying will be dealt with under the College’s anti-bullying policies.

What happens if my child’s device breaks or fails?

The device is the responsibility of the student and should be treated with care at all times. Should it break or fail, consider the value of the warranty when you purchase a device. The Consumer Guarantees Act ensures that devices should be fault free for a “reasonable” period of time. It is also worth considering whether the device is covered by your home contents insurance.

Do I need to get Microsoft Office installed on my child’s device?

No. Students will use Google Apps for Education, which is free and includes many tools including email, word processing, spreadsheets and the ability to create presentations.

However, although it is not required or compatible with all devices, students are also freely provided with access to the desktop version of Office 365 and can log in with their student email account here: https://portal.office.com/

Only on compatible devices will an “Install Office” button appear towards the upper right area of the page. The first option, Office 365 Apps, is the one you seek.

Other Information

If you are looking for more information on online issues in general, we recommend you visit the Netsafe parenting pages: (https://www.netsafe.org.nz/advice/parenting/).

We have partnered with Noel Leeming and they have several offers for Glenfield College families:
https://www.noelleeming.co.nz/byod

Their guide for parents can be found at:
https://www.noelleeming.co.nz/byod-tips-and-tricks

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)