The WRDSB iPads are managed by ITS with a program called Configurator which makes it much easier to manage iPads in a school setting. This new iPad management and support model reduces the amount of time spent by school staff syncing, updating and managing the content on iPads.
Each school has received:
- 20 iPads & 20 iPad minis
- 20 sets of charging cables/AC adaptors
- 2 Bretford iPad Sync Trays
- Mac Mini for syncing and device management (ITS use only)
Mac Mini:
- should remain plugged in at all times and may only be moved by ITS staff
Bretford Sync Tray:
- has the ability to lock for safe storage
- can EITHER charge or sync - but not at the same time
To Charge:
- turn on the sync tray with the power button at the back and disconnect the USB cable
- make sure that the iPads are plugged in correctly
- once charged, iPads should get a full day's battery life with normal usage
To Sync:
- connect the USB cable from the Mac Mini to the syncing tray
- connect your iPads and turn power on
- iPads will automatically sync when plugged into the tray - you will see the iPad light up in response
- when you hear a train 'toot', the iPad sync is complete
- if you are syncing an entire Bretford tray of iPads, the computer will only 'toot' once when all are complete (this takes about 3 - 5 minutes per iPad)
If your iPad did not sync when plugged in:
- make sure the Bretford Sync Tray power is turned on
- disconnect the iPad, then reconnect
- if it's a whole tray, turn the Bretford Sync Tray off then on again
Syncing iPads
- syncing your iPads with the Configurator will restore your iPads to the initial WRDSB settings
- synching will erase photos, bookmarks, folders, weblinks, passcodes and settings
- be sure to move any content you need to save off the iPad before you sync
How often should iPads be synced?
- a regular maintenance routine involving syncing will keep the iPads free of accumulated content and running smoothly
- how often this happens will vary from school to school - it does not need to happen daily or even weekly - a monthly routine might be a good starting point
- before syncing, any content that you wish to save should be removed from the device (see Content Management link)
- it is a good troubleshooting strategy to sync any iPads that are not working properly
- syncing is also useful for resetting any iPads that may have unintended appearance or setting changes
Cleaning
- regular cleaning is advised, using a dry microfibre cleaning cloth that is free of any chemicals
Student Handling
- prior to using iPads with students, and on-going through the learning process, teachers should have conversations with their students regarding safe handling, Digital Citizenship and the WRDSB Responsible Use Policy
iPads in the Classroom
- iPads are easily shared and can be very effectively used in a variety of configurations - it is not necessary to have 1:1. A few iPads in a classroom encourages purposeful conversation, collaboration, and communication. Keeping 20 together in a 'portable lab' promotes the old idea of technology being a 'separate event' to the learning happening in the classroom.
- We are recommending small groups of iPads in classroom for longer periods of time. iPads are very effective when used in small groups, where students can have access to them anytime to access information, or to complete learning tasks in new ways.
Additional iPad Accessories:
Cases / Covers
- features to consider: book-style, corner protection, the ability to fold into a stand, durable, fits in the charging tray
Data Projector Adapters
- Apple 30-pin to VGA Adapter Code MC552ZM/B - approx. $35.00 each
- this connects an iPad to a data projector for large screen display
- great for teacher demonstration or to showcase student projects
Support