Information Communication Technology (ICT)
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
It is compulsory for all students at Berwick College to bring their own IT laptop to school as part of their essential booklist. There is a lot of devices to choose from but there are some restrictions on minimum specifications and device type.
Families have the following options to choose from:
Option 1
Families purchase a laptop from a Department of Education (DE) approved supplier. We have engaged Edunet to provide a convenient purchasing portal with an option for finance.
Purchasing from Edunet has the following benefits:
- The Berwick IT Team can assess the laptop and log jobs with Edunet on your behalf.
- The devices are robust and designed for the school environment.
- Finance options are available.
- Easy setup for school use.
- Very competitive warranty and accidental damage insurance options.
Option 2
Families purchase a laptop from a retailer or from an existing laptop from home. The laptop will need to meet the minimum device specifications listed below.
Please note: Chromebook laptops, iPads or other tablets are not recommended as they do not provide the same learning experience as a Windows laptop.
Minimum Device Requirements
The device needs to meet the following requirements:
- Internal hard disk must be at least 256GB of storage.
- 8GB RAM
- Screen size above 11.6″.
- Windows 11 (versions older than Windows 10 are not supported).
- Laptop must be able to hold charge for the entire school day (charging at school is not supported).
- Protective cover and carry case.
We highly recommend devices to be under warranty and have insurance that covers accidental damage. Laptop screens are the most commonly damaged component and are often more expensive to replace than the cost of insurance.
Software
There is no need to purchase any additional software for school, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud.
All students are provided a free Microsoft Office 365 account. This includes access to Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook (email), OneNote, OneDrive and Powerpoint. These can be installed directly on a student laptop and up to 4 other devices at home.
Why is it important for students to learn to use the latest technology?
In today’s society technology is advancing at a rapid rate. Workplaces are increasingly embracing the many new opportunities that new technology offers. Technology will, inevitably, play an increasingly significant role in the future of our society. Not only is it crucial that we embrace existing technological tools to engage and promote best learning practices for our students, but we must also be preparing them for a future where our work and social lives will be increasingly enhanced and saturated by technology.
Why use technology in the classroom?
Embracing the possibilities that new technology presents ensures that students are far more engaged and motivated in their learning. Students are able to learn more closely aligned with their learning style and intelligence. Teaching and learning no longer has to be one-dimensional with students having access to images, videos, audio and interactive learning activities. The classroom becomes a launchpad where students can launch into an entire new world of digital learning experiences. Through embracing technology in the classroom, students are able to develop the skills and knowledge essential to the twenty first century.
Features of Berwick College's E-Learning Plan
Berwick College seeks to embrace the future and believes in equipping students for the world of tomorrow. There is a range of new technologies accessible to students in the classroom. We are close to reaching our aim of 1:1 computer access for all students. This is mainly through our BYOD (‘Bring Your Own Device’) scheme, where students bring a laptop, along with our computer laboratories. All staff have their own school-based Google account for online and collaborative communication, organisation and document creation. This ensures students can be learning anywhere, anytime on their device. Teachers are continually being updated on the latest ways they can use technology in the classroom. Students can also select specialist subjects like ICT, media and photography which allow for specialisation in subject areas of their interest.