Netbook TrialLynbrook Conference2009David Westaway
Overview• A trial of approximately 10,000 netbooks across
345 schools in a one to one learning environment• Companion device to support different learning
opportunities – not to replace desktop or notebooks
• A focus on literacy and numeracy
Netbooks•Intel Atom processor 1.6GHz — built with the world's smallest transistors
•1GB DDR Memory
•160GB HDD
•Microsoft Vista (upgraded from XP)
•Up to 7-hour battery life with supplied 6 cell battery in education models
Lenovo S9
Regions:Loddon Mallee Barwon South West
Acer Aspire One 8.9”
Regions:Grampians Northern Metro (part)
Co-contribution Model• In the trial the costs are being shared by the
regions, schools and parents• The netbook is a school owned computer• The netbook is leased for $52 per year• A third $52 option to buy payment at the
end of year 6 will enable parents to own the netbook
• All warranty repairs are covered during the lease
• Excess payable by parents for theft and non warranty repair of $100 for lease period, police report required
Why 1:1 Computing & Why Now?• Laptops allow “anytime, anywhere learning.”
• We can’t afford any more precious classroom space being used up as computer labs.
• We won’t need computer teachers when every teacher teaches with computers.
• Schools have had 1:1 computing for more than 15 years. Microcomputers have been in schools for 25 years. We owe it to our students to close the digital divide immediately and offer expanded learning opportunities.
• The personal computer has revolutionized every other aspect of society and one expects that the same should be true for education now that laptops are more affordable, durable and portable.
21 Steps to 1-to-1 Success
Planning
Implementing
Evaluating
Preparing
Planning
• Step 1: Consider current research • Step 2: Establish the eLearning vision for
1-to-1• Step 3: Engage school council• Step 4: Develop communication strategies• Step 5: Conduct a detailed readiness
assessment• Step 6: Develop a project plan• Step 7: Prepare a detailed budget • Step 8: Select a preferred ownership and
finance model
Preparing• Step 9: Ensure teachers are maximising use of
notebooks• Step 10: Professional learning• Step 11: Learning places and spaces• Step 12: Software, tools and online resources• Step 13: Suppliers and $$• Step 14: Calculate the total cost of participation• Step 15: Support documentation• Step 16: Prepare responses to anticipated
questions
Implementing
• Step 17: Onsite service structures• Step 18: Conduct parent and community
sessions• Step 19: ICT infrastructure and technical
support• Step 20: Distribute student devices
Evaluating
• Step 21: Review and management
Netbook Software
Netbook Trial (EduStar) Software Image
Kahootz V2 Google Sketchup
Debut Google Picasa 2
Blender MSW Logo
MonkeyJam Irfan View
Jing Microsoft Vista
GIMP Microsoft Office 2007
Paint.NET Student (Encarta)
Free Mind Microsoft One Note
Cute PDF Writer Microsoft Groove
Audacity Microsoft Outlook
Gamemaker Internet Explorer
Tuxtyping Producer for PPT
Tuxmath
Linking Netbook Software & Web 2.0 to VELS
Issues• Tech support
– One touch recovery feature– Warranty claims– Tech support costs based on enrolment rather number of
devices
• Insurance– Self insuring
• Software issues– Microsoft licensing vs. Open Source– Operating System Vista vs. XP
Issues• Network issues
– Accessing printers and Network Drives
• Wireless access– Expanding wireless infrastructure; Wins 2?
• Staff support– Composite classes
• Internet – Costs– Acceptable Use
Resources
• Netbook wiki http://netbooktrial.wikispaces.com/ • Selling the Dream of 1:1 Computing – Gary Stager
http://www.stager.org/laptops/talkingpoints/index.html
• Anytime Anywhere Learning Foundation http://www.aalf.org/
• DEECD Netbook Project http://www.education.vic.gov.au/management/ictsupportservices/netbooks/default.htm