Digital Learning at UMG
At Upper Mt Gravatt State School, our eLearning vision is to provide opportunities for all students to be digitally connected to resources for learning. Information Communication Technology (ICT) is one of the general capabilities for student learning across eight learning areas of the Australian Curriculum. Twenty first century learning involves being able to investigate, communicate and create with ICT’s while developing knowledge and skills to manage and use ICTs responsibly.
At UMG iPads have become a valuable tool to enhance students' learning, providing opportunities for collaboration with their peers, problem solving, creative thinking and varied ways to present their learning as they develop 21st Century Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills. As a communication tool, iPads foster links between home and school.
iPads do not replace traditional learning as teachers balance the integration of ICTs with hands on learning, fine and gross motor activities and written work. Teachers ensure the integration of iPads into learning areas provides students with engaging opportunities that complement and enhance learning. The use of ICT for constructing learning is very different from using devices as a consumption tool. Game based learning or drill and practice has its place but forms just a small part of the application of ICT for learning.
iPad Agreement Information
In order to use a BYOD iPad at UMG we require parents and students to read and sign our iPad Acceptable Use Policy and Participation Agreement forms. This ensures parents are aware of any changes to our BYOD program and that parents and students are aware of appropriate use of iPads at school. Once signed a copy of these documents is stored in our school office. Forms are provided to students at the start of Year 2 or when a new student enrols throughout the year.
Further information and frequently asked questions about our BYOD iPad Program can be found in our Information and Procedures Handbook.
iPad Requirements
Our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program from Years 2 to 6 allows students to bring an iPad to school for learning. Students who are not able to bring their own iPad will access shared school iPads. These iPads are for use during school hours only.
Some families may already have children in other year levels with devices and are only seeking updated requirements for their child starting with a device next year. The latest details around specifications are as follows:
2024 iPad Requirements
The iPad must be able to run iPadOS 17
Minimum 9.7 inch screen
128 GB
Wi-Fi only – not cellular and no SIM card
Shock/drop case protector recommended
Complete list of supported iPads
- iPad 6th gen
- iPad 7th gen
- iPad 8th gen
- iPad 9th gen
- iPad 10th gen
- iPad Pro
- iPad Air 3rd gen
iPad Air 4th gen
iPad Air 5th gen
Purchasing Options
Devices and accessories are available from a range of retail outlets, many of whom will price match. Education pricing is available from Apple and New Gauge Digital BYOD Parent Portal. A passcode for the parent portal is supplied in a UMG Communication email. We do not endorse any one store, however, New Gauge Digital and the Apple store can support you to set up the iPad.
App Lists
UMG has a whole school App list with Essential Apps that are required for every year level. Once these are downloaded in Year 2 they will be used across other year levels as your child progresses through their schooling.
Year Level App Lists include additional Apps relevant to each year level. Once downloaded Apps should be put into Folders on the iPad as shown on the App Lists.
Apps are evaluated by teachers and administration to ensure they are appropriate and meaningful for teaching and learning. Most Apps are free to download with a small amount of paid Apps required.
iPad care at school
- iPads are managed in the classroom using Apple Classroom Manager. This allows teachers to see at a glance what their students are working on, navigate students to websites and lock iPad screens if necessary.
- iPads are transported to and from school in school bags and use before or after school is not permitted.
- iPads are locked in the classroom during play breaks and not permitted in the playground.
- Students are taught how to use their iPads safely at school and online safety is monitored by teachers and through the Department's internet filters.