Digital Technologies – Pupil Wi-Fi
The aims of the Scottish Government’s digital learning and teaching strategy ‘Enhancing Learning and Teaching through the use of Digital Technology’ (2016) are to:
- Develop the skills and confidence of educators in the appropriate and effective use of digital technology to support learning and teaching
- Improve access to digital technology for all learners
- Ensure that digital technology is the central consideration in all areas of the curriculum and assessment delivery
- Empower leaders of change to drive innovation and investment in digital technology for learning and teaching
One of the key ways in which this will be delivered is through the introduction of Wi-Fi technology. We now have the infrastructure in place for this.
From Monday 5 December pupils will be able to bring in their own electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops to school to access Wi-Fi which is intended for curricular use under the direction and supervision of their classroom teachers. Pupils bring their own device into school at their own risk. They must look after these devices and keep them protected at all times or store them safely in their locker. It must be stressed that there is no requirement to do this and when class teachers do allow pupils to use this technology, alternative arrangements will be made for pupils who do not have their own device with them.
When the opportunity to use such devices arises, pupils will be expected to follow the normal classroom rules and procedures and do as requested by the teacher. For example, after a 10 minute research task, devices are put back in school bags when asked.
The Wi-Fi does not allow unlimited access to the internet i.e. East Renfrewshire Council manages the content that is broadly similar to what is available on school desktop computers, therefore, pupils will not be able to access inappropriate sites/apps.
It is important to note that the Scottish Qualifications Authority prohibits taking mobile phones or other electronic communications devices into examination rooms.
These messages will be reinforced at assemblies, in PSHE and all of our media channels and is also reflected in the Responsible User Agreement that all pupils and parents sign.
Pupils will be able to access Wi-Fi at other times in the school day e.g. before school, interval, lunchtime and after school. It is just as important that it is used responsibly at these times also. Pupils who misuse this privilege can have their access revoked.
Pupils will register their own devices by logging in via GLOW. They will be shown how to do this at assemblies and in PSHE. Instructions will also be posted in the school website and Twitter. Should pupils require their GLOW login details including resetting their password they can ask any member of staff to do this.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this please contact Mr Fuchs.
