BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) is the program that allows students to bring a personally owned device to school for the purpose of learning.
This personal computing device needs to meet certain minimum specifications that are recommended by the Department of Education and Communities (DEC) and the school.
There is some flexibility around which device students can use at school, however, Apple and Android devices are not recommended as there will be problems of accessibility to networks and incompatibility of software. We recommend a laptop or a tablet that has an attached physical QWERTY keyboard.
It is essential that the device brought to school has the following specifications.
Windows Laptop
Operating System: Windows 7 or Windows 8.1
Wireless: 5GHz 802.11n
Minimum Screen Size: 10"
Storage Capacity: 64 GB hard drive
RAM: 4 GB
Minimum Battery Life: 5-6 hours
USB Ports: At least one USB port is recommended
Suggested Accessories: Protective case/cover – a carry case is essential in protecting the device and can also provide ergonomic advantages and Headphones
Warranty & Insurance: Consider purchasing an extra warranty to reduce future repair costs as the device will be used extensively. Devices can become lost or broken easily and insurance is recommended to cover these eventualities
THE NSW DEC WIRELESS NETWORK
The DEC wireless network installed in High Schools operates on the 802.11n 5GHz standard. Devices with 802.11a/b/g or 802.11n 2.4GHz only should be able to connect to our network if their wifi drivers are current.
Ask this question before you buy a device for BYOD -"The NSW Department of Education has a 5GHz (n) wireless network that uses a full range of channels. Will this device connect on all channels in the 5GHz range?"
Do not purchase a device for BYOD unless the answer is "yes".
FUNCTIONAL SPECIFICATION
Additionally, the device must meet all of the following functional requirements pertaining to software:
Operating System: As per the Hardware Specifications listed above.
Education Software:
- Web browser Internet Explorer 11 or newer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox.
- Word Processor, Spreadsheet & Presentation Package: Examples include Microsoft Office & Polaris Office.
- Microsoft Office 365 and Google Apps are free downloads for students via the Student Portal.
- PDF Reader Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible
- Flash and Java (latest versions)
- The additional subject-specific software may be required.
Please note: Adobe Creative Suite 6 is available as a one of free download for students on their personal devices from the Department of Education & Communities on learning support site.
Backup: USB or cloud-based backup solution (Example: Office 365 or Google Drive)
Students must ensure that their files are regularly backed up. Note that not all "cloud" based solutions will work through the DEC network.
A USB is recommended for all students.
Security Software: All devices must have a security program installed and kept up to date. Examples include Microsoft Security Essentials, AVG and Norton
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY
- Before students bring their own personal device to school they will be required to sign the student BYOD agreement with their parent's authorisation.
- Students will be required to use devices according to school and NSWDEC policies.
- Students will need to ensure that their device is kept secure at all times.
- Students will need to keep their devices safe using carry case, screen guards etc.
- Long-term care, maintenance and support of any devices purchased is the sole responsibility of students (and their parents).
FURTHER INFORMATION
Those wishing to look at the Departments' BYOD policy can do so on our website.