The Laptop Program

Students and their teachers use their laptop computers to readily access on-line materials and perform simulations to take advantage of particular learning styles and teaching methods. These students are grouped together for 4 out of their 8 classes in which the laptop computer is a focal element of instruction.

All IBT Students entering Grade 9 in September 2011 will be entering the Laptop Program.

Due to our use of current technologies and software in our school we have a list of minimum technical requirements that the student's laptop must meet. Though the laptops must meet the minimum requirements, exceding the requirements is acceptable. These laptops should last for the 4 years the student is in the IBT Program so investing now in a better computer can be a good choice. We also recommend getting an extended warranty with the purchase of the laptop because, despite student's best efforts at keeping their laptop's safe, they can many times be dropped or have other problems. These problems are not covered by the school and can be costly to repair if there is no warranty.

Hardware:

Minimum: 2 GB Ram, 2 USB Ports, 2.5GHz Single-Core processor, CD/DVD Burner, 2 Hours of battery life, Wireless N Capabilities

Recomended: 4GB Ram, 2-4 USB Ports, 2.4GHz Dual-Core Processor, CD/DVD Burner, 4-6 Hours of Battery Life, Wireless N Capabilities

Software:

Minimum: Microsoft Office 2007 or higher (With Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Publisher and Access), Windows Environment (preferably Windows 7), Mac OSX supported (not recommended), Anti-VirusSoftware

Accessories:

Minimum: USB or External Hard disk for regular backups
Recommended: Carrying Case, USB Mouse, Extended Warranty


Grade 9 IBT Courses That Use Laptops

  • Business
  • English
  • Geography
  • Science

 

Policies for Laptop and Internet Use:

Technology Policy:

  • The laptop is a tool for learning, not a toy
  • Students are responsible for their own laptops and equipment
  • Teacher may ask you to stop using the laptop at any time if they see fit
  • Regular backups of your work is required
  • Laptop or printer failure is not a valid excuse for not handing in an assignment on time

Security Policies:

  • Students are personally responsible for the security of their equipment.
  • While at school, students must have their laptop with them. Students are not to leave their equipment in their hall locker, change rooms, or any public access area.
  • When students require a secure location for their equipment during Physical Education class, they are to use the “security” lockers in the Library. The “security” lockers are large enough for the laptop bag only. They are to be used only for short periods of time during the day as required by individual students. Students are to provide their own locks as an additional security measure.
  • If a laptop is missing, students are to first check with friends, teachers and the main office to ensure that the laptop has not been picked up and safely stored. If the laptop is still missing, the student will report it to the appropriate vice principal and will complete a police theft report. Please note that the report requires a description, model details and serial number(s).

Using Your Laptop in Class:

  • During class time students are not permitted to play computer games, watch videos, listen to music, or use the Internet resources inappropriately. The obvious consequence for not following this directive is that your access to the use of the laptop will be restricted by the teacher.
  • You should always start your day with a fully charged battery. Most class locations have power access, however students should be self-sufficient for power.
  • Follow the “5 minute rule”. If your computer will not work in 5 minutes, you are to close it down and get out a pen and paper. Do not waste valuable class time. It is important that you have a clear routine at the beginning and end of the period to avoid wasting time, while at the same time ensuring proper control of your equipment.
  • Be sure to backup you work files onto an external USB flash drive.