CCS Notebook Program - Documentation

1:1 Notebook Program

Implementation Plan 2012

November, 2011

Covenant Christian School 1:1 Notebook Program - 2012

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Introduction In the latter half of 2009 Covenant commenced a trial of a portable notebook computer trolley program focusing on senior students (those in Years 9 – 12). This decision came out of recognition of the gap between available technology resources throughout the school and demonstrated learning benefits technology brings when effectively integrated into the curriculum. The existing computer labs were in great demand and could not meet the constantly increasing requirements by teaching faculties and students. The success of this program – using trolley-based netbook and notebook computers across three buildings (F, G and J) led to a nine month review by the school to investigate the viability and appropriateness of a 1:1 notebook program for senior students. (NOTE: 1:1 computing describes the ratio of computers to students. Therefore a 1:1 program means one computer per student.) Members of the ICT Committee including the Principal, Business Manager, ICT Manager and ICT Learning Integrator investigated a number of program, hardware, software, support and financing options, interviewed various schools who had successfully implemented their own 1:1 notebook programs (including some who chose for various reasons not to implement such a program) as well as reviewing the teaching and learning/pedagogical benefits and limitations. The outcome of this investigation has resulted in a decision to move forward with a limited pilot program commencing in June 2011 for our Year 10 students. Students were issued with a Notebook computer and relevant accessories in June and have been provided with training and guidelines around appropriate use of the device. Each student will be expected to use his or her notebook through to the completion of Year 12. As a result of this successful implementation, the ICT Committee have decided to continue this program into 2012 and beyond. The next phase being implementation for year 10 students, 2012. All feedback is welcomed and will be reviewed and acknowledged by the ICT Committee. This document provides a framework for Covenant Christian School’s 1:1 Notebook Program and includes the procedures, policies, and terms and conditions relating to this program. Participation in the program is compulsory for students enrolled in Year 10. We believe that access to this technology is a critical part of the learning opportunities available to students. The most up-to-date version of the manual will be available upon request from the Executive Assistant via phone (02) 9450-2688 or via email [email protected].


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The School Established in 1978 by Christians who passionately believed parents are responsible to bring up their children in the training and instruction of the Lord, Covenant Christian School provides a bible-based Christ-centred education for its students, teaching children to think Christianly while assisting them to grow in godliness and make faithful use of their God-given talents. School Vision Statement Vision: Our desire is to be part of God's plan to unite all things in heaven and on earth under the Lordship of Jesus Christ by ... Mission: ... assisting parents in the nurture of their children, providing a Bible-based, Christ centered, culturally engaging and academically rigorous education which equips the children to live for God's glory.


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Table of Contents

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 2

The Case for a Student Notebook Program ....................................................................................... 5 Educational Benefits .................................................................................................................................. 5 Digital Education Revolution ...................................................................................................................... 6 Radically Changed Learning Environment .................................................................................................. 6

The Laptop Package .......................................................................................................................... 7

Planning and Preparation ................................................................................................................. 9 Infrastructure ............................................................................................................................................. 9 Student Preparation ................................................................................................................................... 9 Staff Preparation ...................................................................................................................................... 10

Student Expectations and Responsibilities ...................................................................................... 11 Use at School – In Class ............................................................................................................................ 11 Use at School – During Breaks ................................................................................................................. 11 Acceptable Use ........................................................................................................................................ 11

Technical Support ........................................................................................................................... 13 Hot Swap Pool .......................................................................................................................................... 13 Damage or Loss ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Maintaining a Safe Environment ..................................................................................................... 14 Occupational Health and Safety ............................................................................................................... 14 Safe Internet Use ..................................................................................................................................... 14

Termination of Enrolment .............................................................................................................. 15

Contacts ......................................................................................................................................... 16 Use in a Class or Subject .......................................................................................................................... 16 General Questions ................................................................................................................................... 16 Financial / Insurance ................................................................................................................................ 16 Technical Support .................................................................................................................................... 16

Notes ............................................................................................................................................. 17

Student/Parent Agreement ............................................................................................................ 18


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The Case for a Student Notebook Program We believe that the introduction of a 1:1 notebook program is necessary in order to be true to the vision and mission of the school. From the vision, we believe that 'all things' must encompass technology. Therefore we must direct and educate our students as they become 'digital disciples'. We should assist parents to navigate our students through the 21st century world, giving them the opportunity to engage with the culture of today via their learning, and through the lenses of scripture. We need to teach our students how to put Christ at the centre of their lives in ALL things. This cannot be done effectively by shielding students away from technology. Rather, we should give the opportunity and guidance to become digital disciples, equipping and preparing our students for when they eventually leave our care.

Educational Benefits There is much research which points to the educational benefits of 1:1 computing when implemented effectively. The Red Report, (http://cadad.moodlesites.com/mod/resource/view.php?id=37#RED) published in 2010 finds:

“Results indicate that schools with 1:1 learning programs, when properly implemented, have better educational success than do schools with fewer computing devices and poor implementation …and that personalization and individualization of instruction work best when students have 100 per cent access to a computing device, like a laptop or tablet.”

The Maine Education Policy Research Institute University of Southern Maine, reported on probably the largest 1:1 program in the world. (A roll out across the whole state) The executive summary states: 1. Teachers are using the laptops in a variety of ways, and most often in developing

instructional materials, conducting research related to instruction, and communicating with colleagues.

2. Students report using the laptops most frequently in finding information (90%), organising information (63%) and taking class notes (57%).

3. Student usage of the laptops for completing class work is higher for students who may take the laptops home.

4. Over 70% of the teachers surveyed reported that the laptops helped them to more effectively meet their curriculum goals, and individualise their curriculum to meet particular student needs.

5. Over 75% of the teachers reported that having the laptops helped them better meet Maine’s statewide learning standards, the Learning Results.

6. More than four out of five teachers surveyed reported that students are more engaged in their learning, more actively involved in their own learning, and produce better quality work.

7. More than 70% of the students surveyed reported that the laptops helped them to be better organised, and to get their work done more quickly and with better quality.

8. Teachers reported that all types of students are more engaged in their learning and more motivated to learn, particularly at-risk and special needs children.

9. A sample of ninth grade students who no longer have laptops reported that they get less work done without the laptops, and the quality of their work has declined without the laptops.

The full report is available at www.usm.maine.edu/cepare/Reports/MLTI_Report1.pdf


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Dr Barrett Mosbacker (who publishes “The Christian School Journal” – Excellence in K-12 Christian Education and spoke at the CEN Conference hosted by Covenant in 2010) makes the following observations about modern students:

1. They are highly participatory 2. They are highly connected 3. They have never known a time without the internet 4. They don’t need us (teachers) to get information 5. They DO need us to show them how to acquire wisdom and gain understanding

This is just a very small sample of the research that has been done all over the world into the effectiveness of 1:1 learning. We have a responsibility to prepare students adequately for the workforce by integrating the technologies (used seamlessly) in the workplace into authentic learning experiences.

Digital Education Revolution The Federal Government in 2007 articulated the requirement for improved access to technology for students in Years 9 to 12 through the ‘Digital Education Revolution’. This revolution would “contribute sustainable and meaningful change to teaching and learning in Australian schools that will prepare students for further education, training, fobs of the future and to live and work in a digital world” (DEEWR, 2008, p1). A large focus of the ‘Digital Education Revolution’ has been significant funding for schools across all sectors. Covenant Christian School has been a beneficiary of this funding since its inception. We have deliberately waited until this time to introduce our 1:1 program. It is a blessing for the school and particularly our students, to be able to provide access to fully functioning portable computing devices, without charging any levy or increasing our fees.

Radically Changed Learning Environment At Covenant, we believe we are in the midst of some exciting changes to the educational landscape. The classroom of the industrial era, with the teacher as the centre of attention and font of all knowledge to be imparted upon the students, is changing. With information at the students’ fingertips the role of the teachers is also changing. The notebook computers will be an integral part of this change, allowing class time to be used for discovery, collaboration and creation – fundamental activities shown to enhance student learning and engagement. This new learning environment needs to be culturally relevant. Our students today have never known a time without connectivity. Almost all will be connected to the internet while at home. A large percentage of them have their own ‘smart phone’ that allows them to connect. And they will all spend at least some of their working life connected. We cannot claim legitimately to be educating your children to be prepared for the future, without engaging with this culture, deliberately considering how Christ would have us respond to these new challenges.


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The Laptop Package The school is providing a comprehensive package covering hardware, software and insurance for each Year 10 student. Hardware specifications Dell Latitude E6320 Notebook Computer Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-2310M (2.1GHz, 3M cache) Display: 13.3" HD (1366x768) Anti-glare LED RAM: 4GB (2x2GB) 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM Hard drive: 250GB 5400rpm Connectivity: Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6205 (802.11 a/b/g/n) Bluetooth: Dell Wireless 375 Bluetooth Module Resolution: 1366 x 768 resolution Battery: 3 Year Warranty on 6-cell (58Wh) Primary Battery 3 cell secondary battery Other: Standard Palm Rest without Fingerprint Reader & Contactless Smartcard Reader

Integrated HD (1MP) Webcam with Digital Microphone Intel(R) HD Graphics 3000

Warranty: 3 Yr Next Business Day Onsite Service Insurance: 3Yr Accidental Damage Protection Dimensions: 335mm(W) x 223mm(D) x 30mm(H) Weight: 1.65 Kg (with 3 cell battery) RRP: $2599 (online price including delivery – Oct 2011) Software The following is a preliminary guide for the software planned to be installed on the student notebooks. (Subject to change without notice.) Microsoft Windows 7 Microsoft Office 2010 (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Publisher, One-Note) Adobe CS5 Suite Sophos Antivirus Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Photostory Evernote VLC Media Player Audacity (with LAME MP3 Encoder) Game Maker 8 Lite Click View Google Sketchup Text to speech software Mathletics Accessories Mandatory purchase of a Targus Bag to protect the notebook computer. This will be at a special education discounted rate and will be charged to the parent fees. At the conclusion of the program, this bag will remain the property of the student / parent. It will not be permissible to supply your own bag. TekSkin – Each notebook will have a TekSkin supplied, covering the outer case of the computer. This protects the notebook, and also makes it more easily identifiable. Students can choose their own TekSkin design from a supplied range.


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Warranty Three years next business day on support repair will be managed by the school’s ICT Department. In the case of a fault with the Notebook students will need to return the Notebook to the IT office (D24) above the Senior Library. If the technical issue is not able to be resolved promptly a loan Notebook may be provided to the student in accordance with the procedure outlined later in this manual. The three year warranty is included on the battery. Insurance The purchase of the Notebook will include Dell’s Accidental Damage protection insurance. Please note that there MAY be an excess payable when making a claim. Should the notebook become damaged in any way, please contact Covenant Christian School Business Manager – Mr Andrew Lowry as soon as is practicable after the event. The insurance covers:

• Accidental damage such as liquid spill • Drop or other collision • Electrical surge • Accidentally damaged or broken screen • Other accidental breakages

The following is NOT covered by this insurance:

• Fire damage • Intentional acts • Theft or loss

We recommend you discuss options for theft and/or fire damage with your home contents insurer.


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Planning and Preparation

Infrastructure Over the past 3 years, the Covenant Christian School ICT support team have put a great deal of time and effort into improving our infrastructure in preparation for the increased loads and requirements of a student 1:1 notebook program. We recognise that a reliable and well prepared infrastructure is central to the success of a notebook program. The infrastructure of our network is comprised of all the telecommunications, hardware and software applications, databases and networks required to operate the multiple technologies available to our school. Some of the more significant improvements made include: • Digital data projectors and speakers across all secondary classrooms. • Our wireless networks have been significantly upgraded to ensure the extra load placed on

it from such a notebook program would not adversely affect its usability and reliability. • Our internet bandwidth has been significantly increased. This will allow our students to

reliably access the plethora of web-based tools (commonly referred to as Web2.0) that have relevant applications to education. Specifically, applications such as video conferencing and Google Earth, which have significant bandwidth requirements.

• Filtering and monitoring software will assist students to remain focused in class and at home. It will also help keep them safe while browsing the internet. Monitoring software will assist staff to supervise students effectively during class time.

• An ICT Integrator was appointed in 2010 to assist staff in their use of technology to enhance learning in the classroom.

Student Preparation Covenant Christian School recognises that the provision of notebook computers will create a significantly changed learning environment for our students, and that it will take some time for them to fully come to terms with the possibilities this affords them. With this in mind, the school will provide a full student induction program. Some elements of this program include: • Managing their laptop • Charging • Backups • Technical support • Digital research • Digital Discipleship (see below) • School expectations


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Digital Discipleship The students will need to complete a ‘Digital Discipleship’ program prior to being issued a notebook. This program has been developed internally by Covenant Christian School. It comprises 5 modules that are designed to help the students reflect upon what it means to be a Christian in the way they engage with digital technology. Those modules are: 1. ‘Salty Networking’ – a view of social networking and how their online interactions are

representing Christ in the world. 2. My Spiritual Footprint – extension of the concept of a digital footprint, but within the

context of the gospel. 3. Being a disciple – what is truth? – Are we treating technology as a god or saviour? A

discussion of our identity being found in Christ. 4. Internet Security – how our students can stay safe as they engage with the rich diversity of

the online world. 5. In case of emergency – break glass! We acknowledge the fallen nature of humans using

technology and recognise that, even as Christians trying to do our best, sometimes we will get it wrong. This module will give some practical advice on what to do if the worst happens.

Staff Preparation The success of a notebook implementation program such as this is largely dependent on the preparedness of staff to implement technology into the classroom environment. Like any school, Covenant has a range of staff with different technological abilities. Their preparation began three years ago when we first introduced notebook trolleys into the school, to provide greater access to technology. Over that period of time they have been supported at the faculty level, and also by the ICT Integrator to learn and understand the new pedagogy required by the changes in technology. This training and support will be ongoing. Our staff are excited at the prospect of having this technology at the students’ fingertips, and the opportunities this brings to the classroom.


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Student Expectations and Responsibilities

Use at School – In Class At all times, students are expected to follow the direction of their teacher. This includes any use of their allocated notebook computer. Many classes will allow the students to use their notebooks in lieu of regular hand written notes. They may choose to use word processing software, or provided alternatives – such as Evernote. In many courses, text book publishers make available a copy of the book on DVD ROM. When this is available, we expect many students will choose to use this electronic copy rather than bring the text book itself to school. Students who use the notebook computer inappropriately during class time (by engaging in any activity not endorsed by the teacher) will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the school discipline policy.

Use at School – During Breaks Students are permitted to use their notebook computer at school during their break times. The same behavioural and usage expectations apply during break times, and all usage will be monitored and filtered. Usage during these times is to be ONLY in one of the designated ‘quiet’ areas, and never in the vicinity of active sport. Notwithstanding, it is always the responsibility of the student to ensure the notebook retains adequate battery life for the entire school day. If use of the computer during break times means that the battery will not last until the end of period 6, the students should reconsider use during these times.

Acceptable Use Students have complete responsibility for using the notebook computer in a way that is in keeping with the ethos of the school. Acceptable use of the notebook computer includes (but is not limited to): 1. Care of the Notebook

a. Always transporting the notebook in the slip case, whether inside the student’s school bag or not.

b. Take extra care when consuming food and beverages near the notebook computer. c. Do not place anything on the keyboard or palm rest of the computer, such that when

the lid is closed it is susceptible to damage. d. Be careful and gentle with the lid and keyboard (and the whole computer) at all times. e. Notebook is not to be used outside except in designated ‘quiet’ use areas. And never

near any vigorous activity whether inside or out (eg in the hall) f. Students are to keep the notebook clean, and unmarked in any way. g. Notebook is to be kept with the student, in the supplied bag at all times, except when

doing so may put the notebook at risk (eg during sport). At these times, notebook should be kept in a secure locker. The notebook should NEVER be left in a locker overnight.

h. The notebook ‘Tekskin’ is not to be removed. Any replacement necessary will be made at the students’ cost.


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2. General Usage

a. Students are responsible to ensure full (100%) battery life at the beginning of each day (period 1). Students will NOT have the opportunity to charge the battery through the day, and should assume that one full charge will need to last the whole day.

b. Students will modify their usage, and power consumption settings, to ensure maximum battery life.

c. Students are permitted to store personal files (such as their iTunes library) in the relevant partition on their hard drive (not MyDocuments).

d. Content stored on the computer (or accessed in any way) should always be of a nature that would be considered appropriate by the school. Inappropriate content would include (but not be limited to), strong language, violent themes, anti-Christian themes, images that are sexual or revealing. Any inappropriate content may result in re-imaging of the computer without prior warning, and disciplinary action taken in line with the school’s discipline policy.

e. The student should back up personal content stored on the relevant hard drive partition on a regular basis. We recommend using a portable hard drive for this purpose. School work saved in the appropriate location will be backed up by the school on a daily basis.

f. At all times, students are expected to adhere to the general behavioural standards expected at Covenant Christian School. This includes (but is not limited to) use of email, social media, and the school online learning management system (Edumate).

g. Your network access password should NEVER be shared with another student. If you suspect another student knows it, you should change it immediately. The password should meet all of the criteria of a strong password outlined in the digital discipleship program. You will be held responsible for any action performed in your account.

3. Off Campus Use a. Students are encouraged to use the notebook computer as their own personal

computing device. b. The school will make it possible for students to customise the notebook so it is useful

outside the school environment. c. The same internet filtering and monitoring will be in place whether on campus or off.

Any student who attempts to subvert the filtering system will be subject to disciplinary action.

d. The notebook computer is provided for the explicit use of the relevant student at Covenant Christian School. This consideration should govern any other use. Any use that does take place by other family members will be at the responsibility of the issued student.

e. Installation of other software firewalls and/or virus protection is not necessary.

Students are reminded that the notebook computer remains the property of Covenant Christian School, and the school may require the notebook be returned at any time. Students are expected to comply with any such request, by any teacher or member of staff, immediately.


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Technical Support The notebook computers are supplied with a next business day warranty (3 years) from Dell. The CCS ICT Servicedesk will handle all warranty claims, or other technical support, in the first instance. Students can access the online servicedesk from school, or at home, by visiting http://servicedesk.covenant.nsw.edu.au. If a student is unable to access the servicedesk online, then they should visit the CCS ICT Servicedesk in level 2 of the Senior Library at their earliest convenience. Occasionally the software installed on the notebook computer may become unreliable (crashing, or becoming excessively slow). In this instance, the best remedy is often to re-image the notebook (completely re-install system and application software). Students will be shown how to do this and will have the responsibility to re-image their computer should those symptoms arise.

Hot Swap Pool The school has available a number of spare computers in a ‘hot swap’ pool. If a student’s computer has become inoperable and needs a warranty (or other) repair, the school will (generally) issue the student with a hot swap machine. The hot swap will be the student to use until their issued notebook is returned to them, at which time the hot swap machine is returned to the school.

Damage or Loss In the event of any damage to or loss of your notebook, please advise the Covenant Christian School Business Manager, Mr Andrew Lowry, at your earliest possible convenience.


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Maintaining a Safe Environment

Occupational Health and Safety It is important for anyone using notebook computers to understand the Occupational Health and Safety considerations relevant to this activity. The nature of schooling is such that rarely will students be sitting at a computer for a long period of time without a break. At Covenant Christian School our periods are generally just over 50 minutes long, at which time students will move to their next class, therefore stretching their legs and body, and adjusting the focus of their eyes. However, for extended periods of use at home, we recommend the use of a notebook stand and external keyboard. There are a wide variety of stands available from retailers such as http://www.ergonomicrescue.com.au/, who would be happy to assist with any enquiries. The Dell Latitude E6320 has been chosen for its combination of high computing power, and low relative weight. As students should be able to carry less text books when there are electronic versions available, the weight carried in their school bags should not be increased at all with the introduction of this program.

Safe Internet Use The focus of our notebook computer implementation is overwhelmingly focused on the positive experiences that students can have by engaging with technology. However, we are very aware that, in our fallen world, technology is sometimes perverted, and used for evil purposes. There are a number of mechanisms put in place to help prevent inappropriate content. While these mechanisms are extremely important, they are not infallible. Therefore, at Covenant Christian School we focus on educating our students in the safe use of the internet. Parents have a vital role to play in the continuation of this education in the home environment. Whilst there are filters in place that should help keep students safe, these are never infallible and parents should take appropriate steps to ensure the notebook computers are being used in an appropriate way outside of school hours. Open and frank discussion regarding internet use, and having all computers in a public place in the home are two strategies parents might use.


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Termination of Enrolment Upon termination of your enrolment at Covenant Christian School the notebook is to be returned to the school. It should be in a clean and undamaged condition. Depending upon Government funding agreements, there may be an opportunity to purchase the notebook from the school at this time. If you are interested in purchasing the notebook from the school, you should contact the Business Manager when you provide notice that you are leaving the school.


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Contacts

Use in a Class or Subject General questions about the use of the notebook within an individual class should always be directed to the class teacher. Should you need further information or confirmation, then you should contact the relevant subject coordinator.

General Questions Any questions about the notebook program in general can be directed to Mr David Youl, Computing Studies Coordinator. Initial contact should be by email – mailto:[email protected].

Financial / Insurance Questions relating to financial matters, or insurance claims for damage etc. should be directed to the Business Manager, Mr Andrew Lowry. Initial contact should be by email – mailto:[email protected]

Technical Support All technical support issues should be logged through the Covenant ICT Servicedesk – http://servicedesk.covenant.nsw.edu.au. This can be accessed from any web connected computer, at any time of the day. If any issues are unable to be resolved remotely, students should present themselves with their notebook (and any personal data backed up) to the ICT Servicedesk staff on Level 2 in the senior library.


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Notes Page intentionally left blank for your notes.


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Student/Parent Agreement

1. We acknowledge that we have received a school notebook computer and power supply, and that it remains the property of Covenant Christian School. The notebook is in undamaged condition and good working order.

2. We will notify Covenant Christian School as soon as possible after any of the following events: theft or suspected theft, loss, damage (intentional or unintentional)

3. Covenant Christian School may ask for the notebook to be returned at any time.

4. Deciding upon and implementing appropriate usage outside of school hours remains the responsibility of the parent.

5. We have read and understand the acceptable use guidelines contained in this document. We acknowledge that any misuse will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the school discipline policy.

6. The student will bring the notebook to school every day, in a fully charged state.

7. The use of the notebook in any class remains at the discretion of the teacher.

8. Personal data will be backed up on a regular basis.

9. The student is responsible for the safety and security of the notebook computer at all times. It must never be left unattended and unsecured.

10. All State, National and International laws, including copyright and software licencing, will be adhered to.

Student’s Name: Signed: Parent’s Name: Signed: Date:

Please detach this page from your documentation booklet and hand in on the notebook delivery evening.

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