Tips & Tricks

With the introduction of the BYOi this year, it is timely to offer some helpful hints and considerations for home use. Apart from the BYOi, many of our students from other grades have regular use of an iPad. As an educational tool, the mobile device has allowed greater access to resources and ample opportunity for students to create and personalise their learning. At home, while the use of an iPad will differ from one family to the next, there are nevertheless important reoccurring themes that are important to remember as parents.

How do I establish a common understanding with my child?

Share the experience with your child: Ask your child to demonstrate the way they use their iPad at school. Ask your child to teach you how to use the iPad. Have a go at using some of the apps with your child. Have a set time where children can access the iPad.

As a parent, what further resources can I access?

There are many resources available, such as Cybersmart. As parents and teachers, we are committed to supporting our students in developing skills in and greater awareness of digital citizenship.

Is there any need for me to supervise my child while using the device?

It is important for parents to monitor usage. This may include supervising visited websites through the Favourites section and having an awareness as to which iPad applications are being used. It is also worthwhile to remember that the amount of time children spend on the device needs to be negotiated with you. Set time limits. There needs to be a balance between completing schoolwork and recreational time spent on the device. Remember the iPad was initially purchased as a learning device. Therefore, we need to demonstrate to our children that we value the device as a teaching and learning tool rather than a gaming device.

Do the students still use books etc. to do their work?

Yes the students still use books every day; the iPad is viewed as another tool to enhance learning.

How much time is spent on their iPad each day in class?

This will vary, depending on how the teacher & student decide to use the device to support their learning. It may be used for drill & practice during a Maths or Spelling/ literacy lesson, organising and creating work as a result of an inquiry/research task in a work flow situation, story-writing, using a dictionary, referring to the Bible, searching for a location using Google Earth, internet searching at the various times of need during the day, collaborating on a task via SHOWBIE or LIFE, participating in a virtual excursion (e.g. Art Gallery, zoo etc.) taking photos to use in a task, connecting & collaborating with other students, emailing work or uploading to Class Blog. 

How about battery life?