Year 9

Appropriate Use of Technology

Technology access is available to all students as part of the teaching and learning programs offered at Redlands. The use of technology in the classroom provides students with valuable learning opportunities. Access to the online world can be incredibly useful in allowing immediate research and access to rich and varied resources; it can also present some personal challenges. 

Under the Redlands ICT Responsible User Guidelines and Secondary School Technology Usage Policy,  known incorrect use of technology will attract an appropriate response from teachers. However, young people also need to learn how to personally manage their digital devices, along with the distractions created by social media and other temptations.

Parents are able to assist in the management of appropriate use of technology at school by:

  • Speaking openly about the importance of classroom engagement, the personal implications of misuse of technology and the impact it can have on the learning of others.
  • Implementing clear technology agreements in the home. 
  • Engaging with strategies which would best support your child. Some students choose to limit their distractions through the use of applications on devices which prevent them from accessing the distractions. Once the app is downloaded to the device it actually blocks Instagram, YouTube etc. Students can’t access these sites, even if they try to delete the app.
  • Reporting specific concerns of technology misuse directly to the classroom teacher. If preferred, concerns can also be shared with the Subject Coordinator or Year Advisor. 

The eSafety Commissioner offers some excellent and accessible parent resources to assist in establishing, maintaining and developing healthy habits. The following articles are particularly useful:

  • Taming the Technology: How to use parental controls and other tools to maximise online safety in your home.
  • Time Online: Help your child achieve a healthy balance in their online and offline activities.
  • Online Gaming: Online games can be great fun for your child, but make sure you can help them manage the risks.

The eSafety Commissioner also offers live webinars for parents, at no cost. Webinars explore the latest research and are a great way to learn how you can help your child develop the skills to be safer online. All sessions are delivered by eSafety expert educators. During September, age relevant topics cover: popular apps (TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube), time online, gaming and house rules. Don’t forget to register online.

Yr 9’s Physical Activity

Ms Marita Jansons 
Yr 9 Advisor
mjansons@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9819