Released 08/09/2017
The ACT Government has taken an important step towards delivering one of its major education commitments – free electronic devices for all ACT public high school and college students.
The government has released a request for quote to an industry panel of suppliers for what will be approximately 14,600 devices in the first year of delivery, rolling out early in the 2018 school year.
Given the ACT’s place as a leader in technology based teaching and learning, I’m confident in the industry working effectively with the government to roll out this initiative – the only one of its kind in Australia.
Earlier this year I commissioned an expert advisory group to advise on the best way to implement the government’s commitment. As a result of this advice, the government has made key decisions which I can now announce:
- devices will be provided to all public high schools and college students by 2019 – this delivery timeframe is faster than originally announced
- all devices will be Google Chromebooks – ACT public school students are already equipped through a specialised Google platform with Chromebooks, the device of choice across our schools. Having consistent devices for all students will also make for the most productive teaching and learning environment
- devices will be replaced after three years at the end of their optimal life
- Bring Your Own Device policies will remain in schools for families who want to use their own devices.
Further advice will be provided to schools and parents in coming weeks on the exact timing for the delivery of these devices.
Once delivered, this commitment will bring a new level of equity into 21st century teaching and learning in Canberra’s public schools. We are pushing ahead with the technology of the future with a fundamental commitment to equity for all students regardless of their family incomes.
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases
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