Frequently Asked Questions
What is a digital learning environment (DLE)?
A DLE is a student-centered framework where opportunities for learning and access to educational resources are available anytime, anywhere. We have named our DLE, Powerful Learning. Components include:
- 21st Century Skills - communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking
- Digital Curriculum - learning management system (Google Classroom), electronic resources, etc.
- Mobile Devices - Chromebooks with a battery-life of 6+ hours
- Personalized Learning - using an abundance of resources & assessment data to customize learning
It is important to understand that a successful DLE focuses on teaching and learning, not the technology. The device is a tool for education but the teacher facilitates the process and guides each student down their path of personalized learning. Successful DLE programs implement a number of different devices, use a variety of learning management systems, and collect data with a range of assessment applications; but all focus on student learning and applying best practices in teaching.
Why is a digital learning environment important?
A DLE creates learning opportunities for students that are simply not possible without anytime, anywhere access to the internet. For example, it creates opportunities for:
- Collaboration - Students are able to communicate and collaborate synchronously and asynchronously.
- More Timely Feedback - Digital assessments can provide immediate feedback to improve learning.
- Differentiation - It provides a variety of learning and teaching styles to meet students’ individual needs.
- Narrowing the Digital Divide - It provides equal technology opportunities for all students.
- Engaging all students in high levels of learning - Students can work at their own pace and ability.
How do I submit payment for the annual Chromebook fee?
If a student owns their own device, do they have to use the Chromebook?
Will students use the same Chromebook each school year?
Will students receive a case to protect their Chromebooks?
Are students allowed to take their Chromebooks home?
Can I print from my Chromebook at home?
Possibly, if you have a wireless / WiFi printer. For more information on printing from a Chromebook, please visit the official Chromebook Help page.
My child is a full-time PSEO student, can he/she check out a Chromebook?
What are the expectations for students in a digital learning environment?
In a DLE, students are expected to comply with all school rules, policies, and teacher directives when using their Chromebooks. Expectations include, but are not limited to:
- Bring Daily - Students are expected to bring their Chromebooks to all classes, unless specifically advised not to do so by their teacher.
- Fully Charged - Students are responsible for fully charging their Chromebooks at home each night.
- Loaner Chromebooks - “Loaner” Chromebooks may be issued to students when their Chromebooks are being repaired at school. A limited number of loaner Chromebooks are available so a loaner cannot be guaranteed. Loaner devices will not be issued to students who forget to bring or charge their Chromebooks.
- Coursework Responsibility - If a student leaves their Chromebook at home or does not fully charge the device, he/she is responsible for completing the coursework as if the Chromebook were present.
- Responsible Use - Students are bound by the New Prague School District Internet Acceptable Use Policy (524 PDF policy below) and all rules of this Digital Learning Agreement regardless of where they use their Chromebooks and regardless of the source of the Internet connection.
- End of the School Year - Chromebooks will be returned to the District at the end of each school year. Students will be issued the same Chromebook the following school year (3-year lease). The Chromebook and accessories must be in good working order when returned. If the Chromebook and accessories are not returned, the parent/guardian will be held responsible for payment in full.
What is the Internet Acceptable Use Policy (524)?
What is the "Annual Technology - Chromebook Fee"?
The Technology Use & Support Fee provides students with technology hardware, infrastructure, support, and protection against damage, loss, or theft:
- $30 Annual Fee - Required payment must be made prior to the student receiving their Chromebook.
Note: There is a discounted fee ($15) for families who qualify for free and reduced lunch.
- 1st Occurrence: $30 deductible
- 2nd Occurrence: $60 deductible
- 3rd Occurrence: $90 deductible
The above Annual Fee is a user fee only. Use of the District-issued Chromebook is a privilege and not a right. By implementing a Digital Learning Environment, and authorizing the use of District-owned Chromebooks, the District does not intend to relinquish control over the Chromebooks. Student users should not have any expectation of privacy in the content of files on the Chromebooks.
What should a student do if their Chromebook is broken or lost?
Will "loaner" Chromebooks be available for students?
Will inappropriate websites be filtered on the Chromebooks?
While on campus, student Chromebooks connect with the District's internet content filter. The District filter blocks inappropriate content and helps assure safe websites. In classrooms, teachers also use GoGuardian to monitor and guide students' online activities.
When off campus, student Chromebook content continues to be filtered by GoGuardian. Although these tools help block inappropriate content, families are encouraged to install an internet content filter at home for children of all ages. One popular and free resource is OpenDNS. Bevcomm and Comcast / Xfinity both offer parental controls as well. Circle is another popular option to provide parental controls. For additional information, review our home internet filter resource page.
What about students who do not have internet connection at home?
Is print, paper, and textbook curriculum going away?
Do teachers receive training for teaching with technology?
Yes, successful DLE programs implement sustained, year-round training opportunities. Our Technology and Staff Development teams work together to provide summer workshops, Staff Development Days, before/after school TIP Sessions, one-on-one coaching, and self-paced, online courses.
Is there research indicating that technology improves learning?