Will my child use their iPad all the time?
No. iPads are tools for learning that will be used along with all the other tools available at school and home (e.g. pen, paper, calculators, books, computers etc).
Will children use their iPads before school or during breaks?
When students arrive at school, they must leave their iPad in their bag. iPads will be left in the classroom during breaks. (Students may be involved in special, teacher-supervised activities during breaks that require iPads. In this case, the teacher-in-charge will manage the children while they collect, use and return their iPads.)
How will the iPads be stored at school?
Students will store their iPad in the classroom in secure storage.
Will my child still learn handwriting?
Yes. iPads will not replace handwriting. The mode of communication used will depend on the learning opportunity.
Will internet access be filtered?
Yes. The Education Queensland network will be used. All internet access via our network (WiFi and wired) is routed through our filter. It is worth noting that no filter system is perfect given the dynamic nature of the internet. The filtering definitions for our system are updated nightly.
Can iPads with 3G/4G access be used?
Yes, as long as this access is deactivated prior to your child’s arrival at school each day.
Will iPads promote poor posture?
Poor posture and associated strain are generally the product of fixed body position for an extended period of time. Desktop computers and laptops are more likely to cause strain because they control posture. iPads are more mobile and light, which means they can be used with a wider variety of postures. It is easier to shift positions while remaining engaged. We constantly raise awareness of the importance of good posture.
Will iPads cause eye strain?
Looking at any screen (computer, TV or iPad) for a long period of time without resting your eyes may cause eye strain. This is commonly called computer vision syndrome and relates to computer and laptop monitors. One of the reasons for using iPads is they potentially reduce the prospect of computer vision syndrome in the following ways: due to its mobile nature, the chance of staring at a fixed focal length for an extended period of time is reduced, the brightness of the screen can easily be adjusted to match the lighting conditions; it is easy to tilt the iPad or change body position to reduce glare; iPads with retina displays help to address this issue; We constantly raise awareness of the importance of reducing eye strain using a simple guide: after 20 minutes, take a break for 20 seconds and look at something across the room.
What do you advise about volume levels for headphones?
As a general rule, the volume levels of headphones should be low enough to hear a person speaking at normal levels when standing one metre away. The volume for music can be limited on the iPad via Settings > Music > Volume Limit.
Where should I purchase my child's iPad?
Families should make their own decisions about where and how to purchase iPads. Leasing may also be an option.
Should I purchase an AppleCare Protection Plan?
An AppleCare Protection Plan provides an extra year of warranty and 24-7 telephone support for a full two years. Some families may find these facilities useful.
Should I insure my child's iPad?
We strongly recommend you consider insuring all non-consumable property that is brought to school. We recommend you consider insuring all non-consumable property that is brought to school.
