Students at OLGC have access to a wide range of technologies including laptops, IPads, Chromebooks and Interactive Whiteboards. Accessing a wide range of technology and learning the appropriate use of technology in a safe and secure environment is fundamental in preparing our students for the technological demands of the 21st century. Students are encouraged to navigate the World Wide Web in a safe, secure and collaborative environment.
Hardware and Software Use
We use a range of hardware and software at OLGC. We have access to the Internet, laptop computers, interactive whiteboards, iPads and iPods as well as other digital technologies. Students have access to a standard suite of software that can be updated according to the needs to the school.
Digital Citizenship
At OLGC we emphasise a need for digital citizenship. This involves using information and technology in a safe, legal and responsible way. We learn how to be responsible digital citizens by respecting and protecting others and ourselves and being aware of the rules around copyright and plagiarism.
Global Citizenship
Being a global citizen involves connecting with people from all around the world. At OLGC we aim to broaden our connections globally so that we can make sustained connections that help us to learn. We connect with parents, peers and with our Parish. We also aim to connect with people from around Australia and the rest of the world. In order to make these connections we use the benefits of Web 2.1 tools that allow us to interact with other schools, outside experts and the wider community.
What is blogging?
Blogging is the process where a blog is created and shared with the global community.
What is a blog?
The word blog came from the original term web log. It is a website that contains descriptions about things that have happened and reflections on new things that are learnt. Material such as images, videos and audio files can also be included in blogs. Most blogs are interactive, allowing visitors to leave comments about the work that they have viewed.
What is a blogger?
A blogger is the person who is creating and writing items to be posted onto the blog.
Why have a class blog?
Blogs at OLGC have two main purposes. The first is that blogs provide excellent communication between school and home. Classes can use a blog to write about and reflect on what they have been learning and share samples of student work. They may also share photos or videos of events and activities. Parents are able to keep up to date with what is happening in the class and leave comments to encourage and support their child.
The second purpose for blogs is that they are a fantastic learning tool. Blogs enable students to connect with the global community and learn from like-minded students, teachers and people interested in sharing their knowledge with others. People from all around the world are able to read our class blogs and post comments responding to what they have viewed. Comments provide feedback and an audience for student work. Only comments that are positive and appropriate will be published onto the blogs.
There are great opportunities and challenges brought by social networking and the internet. Social media used at OLGC includes but is not limited to Email, twitter, blogs, google plus, google hangouts and skype.
As members of the school community, we should all be conscious of and respect the interests and privacy of the school and other members of the school community when using social media in relation to school activities or the school in general.
Appropriate use of Social Media
All members of the school community should ensure that they:
Parents assisting with classroom activities should not make use of social media sites while involved in such activities.
Email Communication
Effective communication can be enhanced by the use of email. It is imperative that students, staff and parents communicate with each other via email in a manner consistent with the vision and values of the school.
