1-to-1 Learning

Latest news

The Journal of Technology, Learning, and Assessment has published research indicating that participation in 1-to-1 programs was associated with:

• increased student and teacher technology use
• increased student engagement and interest level
• modest increases in student achievement.

The research, titled Educational Outcomes and Research from 1:1 Computing Settings, provides much-needed empirical evidence on the outcomes of 1-to-1 programs on learning and teaching.

Overview

1-to-1 programs are also known as 'anywhere, any time' or 'laptops for students' programs.

These programs provide students with personal portable computers to enhance opportunities for learning. The devices help schools engage the digital generation by nurturing individual (or 1-to-1) learning experiences.

Preparation is the key to success

There are many steps schools need to take before launching 1-to-1 programs. Most of these steps involve detailed planning and preparation.

While primary and high schools need to understand the importance of planning to the success of 1-to-1 programs, high schools in particular must know. Doing so will help them prepare for the rollout of the Australian Government's Digital Education Revolution.

Benefits of 1-to-1 programs

1-to-1 programs are an element in an international move towards individualising learning, which can increase independence and self-initiated learning in students, and extend their learning beyond the classroom.

Students who have their own laptop computers have been found to take greater pride and ownership over the knowledge they create, with a flow-on to more flexible forms of schooling.

1-to-1 programs can extend formal learning communities to include parents, siblings and other people important in students' lives. Also, the programs may lead to initiating global communication and collaboration and develop creative expression.

Successfully implementing 1-to-1 programs

Successfully implementing a 1-to-1 program in any state school relies on an equal focus on:

• a strongly supported vision and culture across the whole school community
• effective technical infrastructure and support
• development of constructivist, student-centred pedagogies
• structured professional development for staff.

The Department has developed four phases and 21 steps to the successful implementation of 1-to-1 programs.

These phases and steps are outlined in the Smart Classrooms Byte: 21 Steps to 21st Century 1-to-1 Success (PDF, 1.1M).

Help for schools implementing 1-to-1 laptop programs

To assist with the implementation phase of the 21 Steps, Advice for schools implementing 1-to-1 Learning programs (PDF, 279k) outlines the operational and financial obligations schools should consider when undertaking their program. It refers Principals and Teachers managing the 1-to-1 program to a number of operational policies and, includes two Participation Agreements. Schools use the Agreement relevant to the program they are operating, as follows:

• The Student Resource Scheme - Student 1-to-1 Learning Program - Participants Agreement (1) (DOC, 740k) is used when the school provides a departmental-owned asset to a student and charges a participation fee (similar to a Textbook and Resource Scheme) and /or the option to dispose of the asset to the parent/guardian at the end of the agreement.
• The Student 1-to-1 Learning Program - Participants Agreement (2) (DOC, 736k) is used when the school provides the departmental-owned laptop to a student without any charges and the asset remains the property of the school at all times.

1-to-1 Learning: Leading the Way Practicums

• What should a digital age classroom look like?
• What is the critical role of a principal in a 1-to-1 program?
• How do you build a shared vision to ensure success?
• What can a 1-to-1 program bring to your school?
• What are the challenges of leading technology rich learning?

If your school is considering a 1-to-1 program, then building the vision for and understanding what is involved in leading a technology-rich learning environment is a priority for your school.

These two-day practicums will enhance the knowledge of lead principals and ICT educational leaders to build a shared vision for their school in 1-to-1 learning. They can challenge leaders to create an essential blueprint for 1-to-1 learning in their school or district.

Secondary schools will be provided the latest information and advice relating to the Australian Government National Secondary Schools Computer Fund.

Need more information?

Manager
1-to-1 Learning
(07) 3421 6310