BYOD environments are being used in many primary and secondary schools throughout Melbourne to allow greater access to digital technologies. This allows for students to learn in their own time, at the level they require. It also lets them complete tasks at home, leading to a greater involvement between families and schools.
Your child is invited to bring a personal Chromebook to use for educational purposes.
Having a personal device is not compulsory, however it will benefit your child because they have an opportunity to use their own device to complete tasks. If your child is unable to BYOD, they will still have access to the school’s shared devices.
If you and your child agree to bringing a personal device to school, you will need to:
read and sign the contract and return it to school, and
have your child log in to the Chromebook using their school Google Workspace account
There are some Frequently Asked Questions if you wish to find out any further information. You can also contact a home group teacher if you need further clarification.
Why can we only bring a Chromebook?
Teachers have planned the curriculum around the use of particular apps, which means that only iPads or Chromebooks would be suitable. It also makes technical support easier for teachers if the devices are the same.
Why can't you provide the devices?
It is very possible to purchase more devices for students - however it comes at a major cost. We would have to pass this cost on to families, putting further pressure on family budgets. This also allows for students to have their own personal devices that they are comfortable with. It also allows them to securely use their Google account on their device, without having to log in and off each time.
Won't they get broken / stolen?
Research shows us that students take care of devices better when they own them. There is always a risk to having anything - toys, iPad, etc - damaged, lost or stolen here at school or on their way to and from school. We would encourage families to make sure their contents insurance covers these instances. We will endeavour to make the area as secure as possible and to instil in the children the need to look after their own and other people's equipment.
Don't children already spend enough time in front of screens?
Of course, there needs to be a balance of using technology and the more traditional methods of communicating like physically writing and also talking to people face-to-face instead of only online. Learners will not be expected to do absolutely everything on their device. There will be plenty of time for off line activities during the day. Learners will not be able to take their device outside at recess or lunchtime or use it during inclement weather.
Will learners be able to access anything on their device?
All users of ICT tools are expected to follow the expectations as outlined in our Student ICT Usage Policy. Teachers will be expected to monitor Device use during learning time, just as they do when students are using any other ICT tool. The Google Workspace Profile limits the students to accessing the internet through our filtered service. Students are expected to use their Device as directed by a teacher. If they do not, consequences will apply.
What does the Chromebook Profile do?
Installing the profile allows the device to:
Access the School wifi network
Use our School's filtered internet access when on School wifi
Access On Demand Testing (when on site)
Access ACER testing (including PAT)
How do I find the Chromebook's serial number?
The serial number will be on a barcode sticker on the bottom of the device. If you are unable to find a sticker, reboot the Chromebook and wait for the Welcome screen to load. Press ALT + V and the serial number will appear in the top right corner of the screen.
I have another question
If you have further questions, please ask your child's home group teacher or email mpolh@sjhcn.catholic.edu.au
Learners access local resources on their Chromebook using their school-based Google Workspace account.
A genuine Chromebook (i.e. not a laptop with Chrome OS installed on it)
4GB memory (RAM)
32GB Storage (eMMC)
Covered by contents insurance
To find your Chromebook's serial number, you can check:
The bottom of your Chromebook: Find 'S/N' and the number that follows it.
The device box: Find 'S/N' and the number that follows it.
On your Chromebook sign-in screen, press Alt + V. Your serial number appears on screen after 'SN'.
From a retailer
You are welcome to buy a Chromebook from any retailer, as long as it meets the minimum specifications.
From our preferred supplier
A Chromebook can also be purchased from our supplier LWT through our dedicated Chromebook Order Portal.
All devices on the portal meet the minimum specifications and can be set up by the school. You can purchase the device outright, buy through Lay By or take advantage of 12 months interest free / regular payment options.
Devices bought through the Order Portal will be delivered to school and can be used straight away.
Google provides a service called Family Link that allows you to supervise the use of your child's Chromebook.
Family Link can be set up using an Android or iPhone app. Information is at https://families.google.com/familylink/
Information about how to connect your child's account can be found at https://support.google.com/chromebook/answer/9900467?hl=en&ref_topic=9904816Â
To set up Chromebook for school use:
Log in to Chromebook at home using your child's school Google account (@sjhcn.catholic.edu.au email address)
Allow Chromebook to download the configuration information