As you are aware, the rate of technological change in the last two decades has been extraordinary. Digital technologies and the Internet have transformed the world into a place where vast amounts of information can be accessed instantly; people around the world are connected; we work in collaboration; and rich media content is created with relative ease.
Our students are digital natives, born into a world of universal access to information. We provide our students with the tools, skills, and knowledge they require to flourish in this new world. We are committed to preparing students to live, learn and contribute ethically in the 21st Century. View our presentation to learn more about our vision for 21st Century Teaching and Learning.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
BYOD means students can bring their own electronic devices to school for educational purposes. We expect students to use devices responsibly, and only with the permission and direction of teachers or other staff members.
Research shows that the use of technology increases engagement, which leads to improved student success. Here are some reasons why BYOD works well:
- students are usually expert in the device they have and customize it to suit their learning needs;
- students can use it to learn anytime, anywhere;
- students can collaborate and work anytime: before school, after school, at lunch;
- student owned devices are often more up-to-date than those schools provide.
Student Learning Portal - LaunchPad
Our Board is committed to providing 21st century learning skills. Our new learning portal, LaunchPad, provides students with access to board and ministry approved digital resources anywhere and anytime.
LaunchPad provides access to:
- Microsoft Office 365;
- Blended Learning and eLearning courses;
- Encyclopedia Britannica Online;
- Bitstrips, BookFlix and much more.
e-Learning
Students can earn Ontario high school credits online through our Board's e-Learning program. Courses meet all curriculum expectations and standards and all courses are taught by fully qualified teachers in collaboration with eLearning Ontario.
An e-Learning course is conducted entirely online using a Learning Management System (LMS). Taking an e-Learning course gives students more flexibility in their timetable and opportunities to earn credits while building valuable independent learning skills that will be beneficial to any post-secondary pathway.
Success in e-Learning courses requires students to be independent and self-motivated learners. E-Learning is not intended to replace face-to-face classes, however, it provides options to students in particular scenarios, such as:
- the need for a flexible timetable due to special circumstances;
- access to courses that are not offered at the student's school; and
- timetable conflicts that cannot be resolved at the student's school.
Interested students can speak to their school's Guidance department to learn more.
