BYOD (Bring your own Device)
What is the “D” in BYOD?
For the purposes of BYOD, the “D” stands for any technology that is a privately owned personal, portable computing device which is wireless capable. This includes laptops, netbooks, tablets (Android, Apple and Microsoft) and smartphones.
Minimum device specifications:
Operating system: Windows, iOS, OSX, Android
Screen size: minimum of 10 inches
Battery life: minimum of 6 hours (continuous use)
Wireless capable – 802.11 n/ac
Keyboard: external (Recommended)
Memory (RAM): 4GB
Internal storage: 64GB
In the case of 10 inch+ tablets we recommend that the student have an external keyboard that can connect to the tablet.
Recommended devices:
St. John’s College has signed up for Microsoft Office 365. This will enable all our learners to access, and download, the Office suite of programs onto their device. Students can download the software to a maximum of 5 devices for free.
Because the school has a Windows server and has adopted Microsoft 365 as its cloud solution, we recommend devices that run the windows operating system.
- Touch screen capable – This allows students to use a stylus to write on their screens allowing them to annotate notes and diagrams easily.
- Operating system: Windows 10
- Screen size: 1 inches to 14 inches
- Battery life: 7 hours (continuous use).
- Keyboard: External keyboard
- Memory(RAM): 4 GB
- 64GB internal storage with an SD expansion slot. Alternatively, 250GB hard drive
All devices must have a protective carry case to minimize the risk of damage.
Recommended Devices: Laptops, Tablets, Ultrabook, Netbook
Devices that does not work with our server: Chromebook
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Students
Q: I brought my personal device to school to use in the classroom, but my teacher said I couldn’t use it in his/her classroom. Can I still use it?
Answer: The teacher in the classroom has the final say on procedures in the classroom. If he or she asks you not to use your device, then you should follow those directions.
I need to print something, is this allowed?
Answer: Printing is done through an internet portal. Printing is dependent on whether your machine can interact and upload the document to this portal. If it can, then you will be able to print, much in the same way you print from the school computers now. If not, you will have to use a memory stick and access a school computer to print.
My personal electronic device was stolen when I brought it to school. Who should I contact about this?
Answer: Bringing your personal technology to school does have some risks. It is always a good idea to record the device’s serial number in case of theft. Some devices also have a locator application – it is recommended that this is enabled. St Johns College is not responsible for the theft of any personal technology, nor is it responsible for any damage done to a device while at school. Theft or vandalism of any kind should be reported immediately to the Assistant Principal so the appropriate action can take place. Damage to, or theft of, a personal device is solely the responsibility of the owner.
Am I still held accountable to the Cybersafety agreement I agreed to, even though this is my own personal device?
Answer: Yes. The school cybersafety policy remains in effect even when you are using your own device at school. Violating the terms of the agreement is a violation of the student code of conduct and will be dealt with by the Assistant Principal.
Will there be a penalty to my grade if I do not have my own personal, portable computer?
Answer: No. Having a device is not a pre-requisite for learning or achievement. When technology use is mandated, devices will be provided to those students who are unable to bring their own to school.
I have my device with me in class. How do I get on the Internet?
Answer: Most devices will detect a wireless access point when you are near one, and will prompt you to join the network identified. A network password key will be emailed to you which will give you access to the St John’s wireless network. The wireless connection is named “sjc-byod”.
Parents/Caregivers
Is it required that my son use the school wireless? Can they use their own 3G or 4G service?
Answer: Students with a personally owned device need to use the BYOT wireless network. While at school, students are not allowed to use their personal 3G or 4G service to access the internet or download data. This is to do with cyber safety and security.
My son is bringing a device to school for instructional purposes. Will they have access to things they normally do with school equipment?
Answer: Your son will have access to any of the web-based software the College currently uses (Microsoft 365, library search tools etc.). It must be noted that software may run differently on different devices for varying reasons. In addition to this, different platforms will use different applications to do the same thing.
As a parent / caregiver am I required to add additional software (virus protection, filter, tracking device, etc.) to my child’s device?
Answer: Virus protection for devices is recommended. Device location software is also recommended.
How will my son’s device be used in the classroom?
Answer: The learning vision is to challenge students with personalised learning experiences using ICT. Therefore, ICT will be used in the teaching and learning process. However, it is important to realise that teachers are learning focused not device focused, so there will be times when the use of ICT is not appropriate.
How much instructional time will be spent using ICT?
Answer: This will vary from class to class and on a day-by-day basis. Refer to the answer above.
With all these devices around, is there going to be a problem with theft?
Answer: BYOT is happening in many schools and the reports are that theft is not an issue when an entire year level has a device. Many students currently have smartphones which are much more expensive than the devices we are recommending and we have very few problems with these too.
I’m concerned that my child will break a device, drop it or lose it?
Answer: We would hope most people would look after their expensive electronic equipment like they do with their phones. They look after it and they keep it safe. As we grow up we will be given expensive equipment and it is up to us to look after it.
STATIONERY
To make life easier for you for Back to School, we have teamed up Office Products, Napier
RETAIL:
For those of you who prefer to buy through a retail outlet, the Office Product store is situated at 44 Wakefield Street, Onekawa, Napier. Please advise the staff you are from St. John’s College so that the College earns the rewards points.
INTERNET:
Go www.theschool.store.co.nz and select St. John’s College from the drop box by typing St. John’s College until the name appears.
The Stationery lists are loaded by YEAR and SUBJECT. More information will be sent to students in December
BENEFITS FOR YOU:
• You receive competitive prices direct from our supplier
• Save time by avoiding busy retail stores with free delivery
• Order early & have plenty of time to cover your books
• Your child will start the year with the correct supplies
• The products you purchase are of a high quality