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NET SAFETY - PLEASE READ

It is very important that our students are aware of the issues surrounding net safety.  There are basic measures we should all take to protect our own security as digital citizens.  Careless texting, image sending and sharing of information can lead to very unhappy consequences if done without care and consideration.

Student Digital Devices

In 2011 as part of our Future Learning Strategies programme we invited senior students to bring their own digital devices to school.   Students bring their own laptops and digital devicesThose who took up this option overwhelmingly agreed that having unrestricted access to personal technology enhanced their learning.  For 2012 we are extending the invitation to students at all year levels from Year 9 through to Year 13.  It is by no means compulsory for students to have their own digital devices but they are welcome to bring them.   Marsden will continue to make a wide range of technology available for student use.

Here are just some of the ways we are using technology on a regular basis:

  • voice recordings - languages
  • field trips – data collection, recording and analysis – Biology, Geography
  • interactive software – eg Maths (Geogebra), languages (Language Perfect)
  • e-portfolios (developed in a range of subjects)
  • research
  • note-taking and essay-writing
  • video
  • free online textbooks and reading books – these are increasingly available.

Most young people enjoy using technology for social interaction and personal entertainment and we recognise that there is much to distract young people on-line.  Our senior students acknowledged the temptation to be off-task with their digital devices in 2011.  However, through using their own device at school, we seek to expand students’ appreciation of its potential as a learning tool and encourage them to become responsible digital citizens.

At Marsden we do not prescribe or recommend particular digital devices.  Art and design students often prefer working with Macs, while others might prefer smart phones, laptops, netbooks or iPads.  People tend to feel strongly and passionately about their preferred technologies and we accommodate these.  The only requirement is that devices should have internet accessibility and contain a recording device.  

As with other belongings, it is the students’ responsibility to look after their equipment.  School insurance does not cover the loss of such personal items. The school will do its best to support student equipment but responsibility for hardware and software issues rests with the owner.