Technology @ TIGS
At the Illawarra Grammar School we believe there is no substitute for sound teaching and learning practices.
We also recognise the importance, and indeed, the pervasion of technology in our everyday lives.
As we prepare students for life in the 21st century we must equip them with the skills to utilise technology responsibly and empower them for lifelong learning.
To do this effectively, we are adopting a ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) policy for students in Years 7 to 12 from the beginning of the 2012 school year.
Please access the Headmaster’s letter announcing the BYOD policy below:
Technology and 21st Century Teaching and Learning - The next step in the Senior School (7-12)
Such a policy is about more than just giving students a device. We believe that placing the technology of choice into the hands of our students
- Provides opportunity for individualised learning,
- Increases independence, and
- Promotes self initiated learning within and beyond the classroom
This policy allows students to use the device with which they are most comfortable and with which learning will be most effective. Recognising the importance of choice, we are not recommending specific brands and models of devices. Instead, we are specifying the minimum requirements to which each device should conform. Please see the tabs above for these specifications and for further information.
A successful technology programme is supported by clear standards, policy documents and guidelines. We are currently preparing the following documents:
- Technology Standards
- Technology Use Guidelines
- Social Media Policy
- Acceptable Use Policy
All documents will be available here once completed.
Should you wish to explore resources and links about ‘Bring Your Own’ policies and their adoption in schools globally, please follow this link.
We understand that this bold initiative will inevitably bring unexpected challenges. We hope to work together and provide opportunities for us all to overcome these as they arise.
If you have concerns, questions or suggestions, please use the support tab above or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , Director of Information Services.
Hardware Requirements
Operating System: Windows (Vista or higher), Mac (OS X 10.4 or higher), Linux
Processor: Minimum - Dual Core / Recommended: Quad Core or higer for new purchases
Memory (RAM): Minimum - 2GB / Recommended - 4GB or higher for new purchases
Hard Drive: Minimum - 80GB / Recommended: 160GB or higher (30GB of free space after software installation)
Screen Resolution: 1024 x 768 or higher
Wireless Connectivity: 802.11 G or N
Audio / Video: Headphone / Microphone ports / Integrated webcam recommended.
Keyboard: Full QWERTY keyboard suited for touch typing.
Battery: For new purchases the more battery life the better. Consider a 6-cell (or more) battery / Extra charged battery desirable but optional.
Power Adapter: Students are required to be equipped with a power adapter which meets safety standards at all time should recharging be required / A secondary power adapter to be left at school is desirable but optional.
Warranty: For new devices, purchase a complete care warranty that includes cover for accidental damage.
Location at Home: While not really a device requirement, we recommend that students use their device in a public area within the home, such as a living room or family room, where usage hours and work can be easily supervised.
Software Requirements
The following is a list of required software and the associated download links (if available):
Device Access: User must have full administrative access to the device
Internet Browser: Mozilla Firefox 4 or higher / Google Chrome 14 or higher
Internet Browser Plugins: Adobe Flash, Java, Microsoft Silverlight
PDF Reader: Adobe Acrobat Reader / Foxit Reader
Desktop Publishing Suite: Microsoft Office / Apple iWorks / OpenOffice
Audio/Video Player: VLC Media Player
Antivirus Software: Up-to-date Antivirus software is a must have to keep your own and others files safe. Free Antivirus software is available for both Windows and Apple Mac computers.
Free Windows Antivirus Software: Microsoft Security Essentials
Free Mac Antivirus Software: Sophos for Mac Home Edition
The TIGS Digital Toolbox is a collection of tools from the web that assist with searching, creating, storing, sharing, collaborating and communicating.
Please click here to access the Toolbox.
Please read these frequently asked questions for important information regarding mobile devices at TIGS.
Has the school negotiated special pricing with preferred suppliers?
Yes, TIGS has secured special pricing from Dell and Mac1. Please refer to the Preferred Suppliers tab above for more information.
How do I connect to the wireless network?
Please refer to the following document:
Accessing the TIGS Student Wireless NetworkIs student internet access monitored?
Students internet access is filtered whilst they are using the TIGS network. Their complete web history is also logged and monitored accordingly.
Where do I go / who do I see for support?
Please refer to the Support tab above.