29 Apr 2015
The BYOD program gives students from 3-6 the opportunity to bring their own device to school to support and enhance their learning. Through the program, students engage in a range of independent, group and whole class activities, where they use their iPads to engage in student-centred learning in all key learning areas. Students use their iPad's to research, listen, view, explain, create and evaluate within lessons.
With our changing world becoming more reliant on technology, the BYOD program assists students in learning about cyber safety, their digital footprint and plagiarism. These skills enable students to leave school with the appropriate knowledge of how to use technology to support their lifelong learning.
The use of the iPads is tightly controlled within the classroom. Students cannot take them from the class and use them out in the playground. They are used under teacher supervision in the same way computer use is supervised. Students also connect to the internet using the same login credentials as a computer, internet use is filtered and managed through the school proxy server.
Students who do not bring a device to school are supplemented with a school device. This ensures all students have an equal opportunity to access the curriculum and develop skills in using technology.
The BYOD program thus far has been a huge success with many students engaged meaningful learning. They have enjoyed a range of activities using QR codes, iMovie, Nearpod, Explain Everything and some students have created their own websites.
The BYOD program has the potential to change our classrooms for the better by providing tools and resources to the 21st century learner. Excellence in education requires that technology is seamlessly integrated throughout educational programs. Increasing access to technology is essential for the future, and one of the learning tools of these 21st century students is the iPad.