We have completed extensive trials with iPads since 2018 and with the introduction of Education Queensland's BYOx Initiative, we introduced BYOD iPads in Years 4, 5 & 6 from 2022 streamlining and updating our existing processes and school network.
Our school policy advocates for the use of iPads where it enhances the activity to a level that cannot be completed with traditional pen and paper. iPads also allow for accessibility issues for students with a variety of needs so they can more easily acces all opportunities to succeed.
Vision
Our vision at Windaroo State School is to develop critical and creative learners that have access to all the tools necessary for the 21st Century, whilst also valuing and engaging our learners into deep thinking, problem solving and solution focus real world activities that explore the array of possibilities not just what has been done before.
The focus of the BYO iPad opportunity at Windaroo State School is to allow the tools and resources to the 21st-Century Learner. A successful BYOD program requires technology to be seamlessly integrated throughout the school's curriculum. Increased access to technology is essential for teaching students skills for a future in which, as societal trends suggest, digital literacy is key. The individual use of personal devices is a way to empower students to work to their full potential and develop essential learning habits with the support of digital tools.
Learning results from continuous dynamic interaction among students, teachers, parents and the extended community. Technology immersion does not diminish the vital role of the teacher. On the contrary, it transforms the teacher from a director of learning to a facilitator of learning. Effective teaching and learning with technology integrates technology into the curriculum any time, any place.
Research that supports our vision
There are thousands of articles and research positions both for and against screens, but many of them directly relate to use of screens prior to entering the school age environment.
Most of the research discusses the detrimental effects of iPads from the ages of 12 months to 5 years which is before the students reach school at all. Here is just 1:
https://journalistsresource.org/education/screen-time-children-health-research/
Minimum device specifications listed below:
The life span of an iPad is approximately 4 years if looked after correctly.
Recommended iPads:
- iPad 9th or 10th Gen 64GB or larger (WiFi ONLY - NO Cellular iPads)
Supported iPads running iOS 17+: limited life span and will need to be replaced earlier
- iPad 8th Gen 32GB or larger
- iPad 7th Gen 32GB or larger
- iPad Air 1 & 2 32GB or larger
- Existing iPad minis running iOS 17+ are not encouraged, but can be used if already owned
Unsupported iPads:
- iPad 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6 (2010-2016+) - Any iPad that cannot update to iOS17+
- iPad minis (2012+) - Any iPad mini that cannot update to iOS17+
Accessories
- Over the ear headphones (not into the ear, Earbuds or Air pods etc)
- Protective case
- Tempered glass screen protector - HIGHLY recommended
- Apple Pencils and cases with keyboards are optional but NOT required.
iPads and accessories can be purchased from a variety of resellers and we do not recommend one over another.
School Locker
A BYO Portal has been set up through School Locker. This portal allows parents of Windaroo SS to purchase discounted Apple products through a website specially designed for our school.
The School Locker portal offers very competitive pricing on iPads, extended warranties, accidental damage insurance and flexible payment options. A link to the portal is available below.
While School Locker is a partner to our school, there are many other Apple resellers where you can purchase and we do not endorse one over another, but we recommend comparing for the best price.
Access the School Locker Windaroo SS Portal
Windaroo State School – School Locker Flyer
Insurance
All devices are monitored by teachers at school and rules are in place to prevent foreseeable problems and damage; however, from time to time, accidents may occur. Parents are encouraged to provide personal insurance for their devices. Check with your preferred insurance company about personal insurance at home and to and from school for your iPad. You may want to investigate an extended Apple Care+. Please note that the school does not provide insurance coverage for the student owned devices.
Apps
As part of Education Queensland BYOx2, the school will be responsible for the providing the basic required Apps via the Intune Comp Portal. For students to have access to these apps and the Wi-Fi /email profiles, parents need to download the Intune app and enrol their device.
Details and "Help Notes" on how to do will be emailed to parents and are also available using the links below. The Management Profile will need to be removed when a student exits the school.
You may load other apps on the iPad for use at home to be kept in a folder labelled “Home" as long as there is a minimum of 16GB available for school use. These apps need to be age appropriate and home apps will need to be removed if they are a distraction at school.