(BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE)
BYOD stands for Bring Your Own Device. It allows students to bring their own computing devices, such as smartphones, laptops, e-readers, tablets or other mobile gadgets, to school during the school day for educational purposes.
Today's students live in a world where they have immediate access to information anytime and anywhere. Many students have personally owned devices in their pockets that allow them to learn in their own style and pace. This will help them access high quality and rigorous instruction in every subject to maximize opportunities for success.
PARENT HANDBOOK
RECOMMENDED DEVICES
STUDENT HANDBOOK
FAQ'S
HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE CONSIDERATIONS
1.What types of computing and devices may my child bring to school?
Students may use devices that fall into the following categories: (1) laptops, (2) netbooks, (3) tablets, and (4) e-Readers. In some instances, teachers may allow cell phones/smartphones to be used.
2. How can my child’s computing device connect to the Internet?
Van Wert City Schools provides a wireless network which students may connect to while using their devices in the buildings. Van Wert City Schools is protected by an internet content filter. All students are required to use the Van Wert City School’s Wi-Fi internet connection while on school property. Using your carrier’s data plan is a violation of the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
3. Will there be “charging stations” so my child’s electronic device can be recharged?
We anticipate that not every class will be using an electronic device in a lesson every day. Considering today’s electronic device battery technology, the device’s battery charge should be sufficient for lessons requiring use of the device throughout the day. “Charging stations” will not be provided.
4. Are there any specifications for the type of laptop, netbook, or tablet my child may bring to school?
Buying a computer is a personal choice. Ultimately, each person will need to choose the device that works best for his/her child. All lessons will be based on World Wide Web access, so the only hardware requirement is the ability of the device to connect wirelessly to the Van Wert City School’s network. See our Technology Recommended Devices here.
5. What software will be needed on my child’s computer?
No software needs to be purchased. The Van Wert City Schools uses Google Docs to store student work. This is a web-based file storage system providing many productivity tools including a word processor, spreadsheet program, and a presentation program. Students will be able to use these capabilities provided by the Van Wert City Schools, through Google Docs, rather than purchasing software. Because purchasing a computing device is a personal choice, anyone may purchase and use other productivity tools that best suits one’s personal needs.
WHOSE RESPONSIBILITY IS IT?
1. Who pays for the technology brought to school?
These devices will be purchased by and remain the property of the family.
2. Who is responsible for any repairs or updating to personal computing devices?
Students and/or their families are responsible for their personal computing devices at all times. Van Wert City Schools does not have the technology support staff to repair or update personal computing devices.
3. Who is responsible for damage, loss, or theft of devices your child brings to school?
Families must stress the responsibilities their children have when bringing their own computing devices to school. Any devices students bring to school are their sole responsibility. Van Wert City Schools takes no responsibility to search for lost or stolen devices nor is there any assumption of financial responsibility by Van Wert City Schools for damaged, lost or stolen personal computing devices.
4. Will the family need to have Internet access at home?
No. It would be helpful, however, to have some form of Internet access (wired or wireless) in order for a child to make full use of school resources from home, as well the multitude of resources available on the World Wide Web. But, it is not required in order for a child to use a personal computing device at school.
5. Does Van Wert City Schools suggest any other considerations?
It may be wise to acquire theft or hazard insurance. If purchasing a new computing device for a child to use at school, we recommend purchasing the extended warranty.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
1. How will a child’s education differ if the family does not have an Internet-connected device to bring to school?
Many lessons are collaborative allowing students to work together, sharing information accessed through personal devices. When the work is individual, students may use computers and other devices located in classrooms and/or in the Media Center. No child’s learning experience or academic performance will be affected because he or she does not have an Internet-connected device to bring to school. Van Wert City Schools is committed to reducing technology inequity so every child can learn equally.
2. Will my child need to have a signed Acceptable Use Policy on file?
Yes. In order for the Van Wert City School District to supervise student use of the computer network and the Internet, the Acceptable Use Policy must be read and the Student Technology Acceptable Use Policy Guideline Agreement form must be signed by all students who want to 3 have access to educational resources. Parent/guardians of students under age 18 are also required to read and sign the agreement. Students 18 or older may sign the document themselves. Signing the document indicates that the student and parent/guardian have read and understand the expectations of the Van Wert City School District.
3. When can my child use the electronic device at school?
Students may use their electronic devices in class all instructed by the teacher. Students may use their electronic devices during study hall, lunch, and when in the Media Center as permitted by school personnel.
4. Will students be able to print documents from their personal computing devices?
Students will not be able to access printers at Van Wert City Schools from their personal computing devices. We will provide alternatives as follows: (1) printing capabilities from school computers, and/or (2) electronic delivery of documents through email or other online methods.
5. Will my child be able to print work from their electronic devices?
Printing will not be available from the student’s personal electronic device. However, any work completed on their personal devices and uploaded to their google drive, may be printed from a school computer or from their home computer.