Frequently asked Questions

What are the students able to access on the wireless?

  • Students gain access to the Internet and BGSD resources such as Gmail, the Engaging Students web site, BGSD Moodle, Destiny (our library program) and any other web based tools.

  • All schools have cloud printing that allows students to print from a BGSD device.

Is internet content filtered?

  • All internet traffic in BGSD is filtered and inappropriate content blocked. This is provided by an international company that specializes in content filtering for schools and businesses, the filter is updated and verified on a continual basis. In addition to this all teaching staff actively engage with students technology use and provide appropriate guidance.

  • The level of content filtering does vary from school to school depending on what is required for certain curriculum. Currently social media is blocked for students, example - Facebook, Instagram. However students with personal cell phones and cellular data plans are able to gain access to any content through their cellular phone plans, because of this teaching staff advocate appropriate admirable use.

What features should an appropriate device have?

  • The ability to access the Internet and the various online tools that students in BGSD have access to, specifically Google Apps, preferably through a Chrome browser.

  • A second important feature is battery life. The student is in class for up to 6 hours per day plus possible lunchtime and after school projects so battery life is paramount. There will be some charging locations in the school for lunchtime charging which would generally give another hour or two of use.

  • Additionally, a keyboard for typing text may be highly desirable Keyboards can also be attached to many devices. Typing on a tablet is possible as they have virtual keyboards, but individual preferences will determine what is appropriate for significant text entry.

  • There are a variety of different devices currently used in classes. The choice of a BYOD device is up to the student and parent.

What software is required?

  • BGSD provides all students and staff with access to web based tools such as a word processor, presentation program, spreadsheet and drawing program in Google Apps. With the Chrome browser students are able to install several apps and extensions that will further enhance their software options. Google Drive is also an available app for Android and iOS devices. This app synchronizes the contents of the BGSD Google Doc. cloud drive with their personal device.

Device security and storage?

  • Students are responsible for their own devices. Replacement, repair and any software or apps desired are the responsibility of the student. Google Drive provides 35 GB of data storage and additional email and photo storage. Virus protection is the responsibility of the student.

Will you recommend a device?

  • Currently schools are supplied with Chromebook devices. These are different from a regular laptop or tablet in that they simply have a Chrome Browser and few locally installed apps. They are very reasonably priced at about 260 $ and in combination with a students Google account provides nearly all the digital tools a student requires. However, they do require internet access to work effectively. See Introducing Chromebook by Google

  • There are a variety of manufactures, Lenovo, Samsung, HP and Acer to name a few and can be purchased from Staples, Future Shop and several other retail stores.

  • Students should not be coming home telling their parents that they require the latest greatest MacBook or Windows Ultrabook. This is not recommended by any teacher or school and is simply a wish on the part of the student.

  • What is a Chromebook video.

If you have a question you would like answered please send to ray.mccubbing@blackgold.ca