When we learn on devices, what do we do?

Students learn to use technology to solve problems, to manage themselves, to collaborate with others, to make connections with the wider world and to develop a set of digital skills needed in today’s world. Some units of work will rely heavily on e-resources, while others will not. Students will use software and hardware in different ways in different subjects and this is a strength of the blended learning (BYOD) approach. Teachers will let students know this ahead of time so they can organise themselves effectively. Students will, at times, work in groups on projects where students can use devices together.

When students learn on devices, how do we stay safe?

Nayland College teaches students digital citizenship and these are integrated into our schoolwide expectations for behaviour. Netsafe (netsafe.org.nz ) is an online safety for New Zealand and has a great deal of up-to-date and quality content. We have processes to manage responsible behaviour that includes a student user agreement and the ability to monitor online activity. The school’s internet access is managed by N4L who block a wide range of non-educational websites. https://www.n4l.co.nz/managed-network-home/ Students are not allowed to access VPN networks

How do we know if this device is money well spent or wasted?

We believe it comes down to the effectiveness of the teaching. Our teachers use blended learning strategies so that students are experiencing a range of tasks relevant to the learning goal.

Won’t students without a device feel left out?

Our year 9 and 11 will still have access to some of our devices and we will support students who need assistance to access to a device. We also have a number of devices in each class that can be used for group work. There is no charge for this service. It is true that having ‘ownership’ of a device brings students a level of freedom and control in their ability to use the device for learning at home and at school.

How will students learn to use their device?

The first term focuses on the transition to school. Time will be set aside for gradually introducing and setting up devices as part of the transition to college. We have timetabled some support to get students with devices to understand our Nayland systems and well as ‘gremlin-chasing’ issues with devices.

What device should we get?

We do not specify which device students can bring. However, devices that prove effective have good battery life, are lightweight, have a strong, big screen and keyboard, have enough memory to store documents, are powerful enough to start quickly, run fast and are strong enough to survive teenage life. A  full list of minimum specifications are listed on our website.

What if the device gets damaged?

We hope most people will look after their device well. Devices should be named and in a protective case. We have purchased additional lockers suitable for students to store devices in if needed. There are also a number of classrooms that include secure storage options.

We strongly recommend that you have insurance for your device, especially for screen damage. There are a range of insurance options when purchasing a device. You can also check the conditions of your contents insurance with your insurance provider in the case of damage. The school is not liable for damage to a device.

Don’t teens already spend too much time online?

There’s no simple answer to this question because not all screen time is created equal. Spending two hours on the internet playing games isn’t as beneficial as spending two hours on a device learning. As parents, we suggest you set your own guidelines about how online time is used.

So you have convinced me to buy a device. How am I going to afford to do that?

Options are available. Please see our website for pricing details from our preferred supplier. Additionally, many retailers offer payment plans. 

How do I help my child with their device?

We suggest that you set up the device and learn how it works for yourself. Support the device being ready to use in class. For example: Have limits on screentime. Charge the device at home each night. Run software updates regularly. As parents, talk about cybersafety with your child and set your own guidelines and limits.

I still have some questions, who can I talk to?

Gaye Bloomfield, Specialist Classroom Teacher. Gaye.bloomfield@nayland.school.nz

We are looking for between 6-8 parents to be part of a focus group that considers how devices are used at Nayland and to help us further develop our processes. This group will meet in early 2020.

Can I get some more information and hands-on help with my device?

Yes. In term one, we are running information sessions where you can bring devices along and learn how they can be used.

Is there technical support if the device won’t work?

Yes. There is some limited tech support for students who are having trouble accessing our network or O365 software.