Laptop Programs FAQs
How do students benefit from using a laptop in their classroom?
A list of the ways a laptop in the classroom can benefit students can be exhaustive. What follows is simply a summary of examples:
- Students access additional information other than what a teacher and a book provides.
- Students expand the walls of their classroom and include other students and experts in the field in online educational discourse.
- Students work collaboratively with their peers through the use of of web based programs providing the opportunity for peer editing.
- Students creatively express their understanding of content with multi-media creation tools.
- Students practice mathematical concepts using software that provides additional guided practice of concepts presented in class.
- Students have access to teacher handouts from cloud based services, promoting ASFG Green's mission toward a carbon neutral school.
What protection against inappropriate content is provided?
ASFG employs a network based content filter to prevent students from accessing inappropriate content and applications while connected
to the school's network.
How do students submit work completed on the computer?
Students use Google Apps for Education to access and turn-in class work, readings, and notes. They also use a variety of other web based
tools to turn in work as appropriate for each project. When printing is needed, students can access printers on campus for a minimal
cost.
How does the student learn to use the laptop?
The grade 7 team organizes a comprehensive introduction for students to use this new tool. Digital citizenship skills, organization,
familiarization with the operating system, and customization of the laptop is an important part of the introduction. Students learn
subject specific skills within their various classes. We encourage families to have an active conversation with students about how, when,
why and where to use technology.
New and returning students in grades 8-12 will be provided the opportunity to take a one week course hosted by the Technology Integration
Specialist. The course highlights some the basic functions of the laptop, Google Apps, and other essential tools for student learning.
Does this mean students carry around a laptop?
Yes. Durable computer accessories are essential to ensure basic protection of the laptop. ASFG requires both a hard protective shell and a
padded bag.
How does a student charge a laptop at school?
Student laptops have an estimated battery span of up to 12 hours depending on usage. Students are expected to bring the laptop fully
charged and bring their charger in the case the battery charge does not last. Many classrooms are equipped with charging stations.
What happens when a student forgets to bring the laptop to school?
The school does not have loaner computers for students that forget to bring their computer to school. Forgetting to bring a computer may
result in the student not being able to access the learning resources for the day.
Does ASFG provide any type of insurance for the laptops?
ASFG laptops are covered by an insurance policy covering violent theft and accidental damage, however, the deductible fee is high on mobile
devices. In the case of damage, a report should be filed at the Tech Center and a replacement laptop is provided to the student allowing
them to continue with their course work while the laptop is repaired. In the case of theft, a police report should be filed and the Tech
Center staff will process the claim with the insurance company. Mysterious disappearance or lost computers are not covered by the insurance
policy.
Can a student make changes to the school laptop or perform other "administrative" tasks?
Students are not granted administrative access to the laptop in an effort to maintain consistency across all devices. These restrictions
allow us to ensure all laptops will be in working condition when students need the laptop for class and provide better support for all
students.
What technical support is available for the student while at school?
ASFG has a Tech Center office with trained technical support staff that can support all issues. If repairs are necessary, the Tech Center
will facilitate the process with the school's vendors.
How often are laptops replaced?
Laptops are issued and replaced every three years, grade 7-9 and 10-12. Grade 7 and 10 students will receive a new laptop at the start of
the year and continue with that laptop through grade 9 and 12, respectively. At the end of grade 9 and grade 12, students will need to backup
their files and return their computer. At the start of their 10th grade year students will receive a new laptop of the most current and
appropriate tool for the school's educational purposes.
New or returning students in grade levels other than 7th or 10th will receive a computer from the same generation as their peers. New
computers are only provided for 7th and 10th graders.
If a student already owns a laptop, can he or she use that laptop at school instead?
No. A key component of the initiative is the inherent equity of every student having the same laptop. In addition, the uniformity of
hardware and software increases the efficiency and effectiveness of the program for the faculty and the technology support professionals.
Does a student need to back-up their data?
Yes, students are responsible to back-up their data by copying these folders to an external hard drive or adequately sized USB memory
stick.. Students should learn the habit of backing up their information on a regular basis.
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