Dear St. Philip’s Families,
One of the things that has become very apparent in these unprecedented times is the fact that technology plays a big role in our daily lives. I think most of you will agree with me, that technology has made these past few weeks a bit more bearable. It has afforded us the ability to continue to work, socialize, and at times even escape from this unusual reality. I can definitely see the benefits that today's technology has given our students, faculty, and parents.
As the Director of Technology, I am entrusted with making sure that technology plays a positive role for all of our constituencies. I am writing today to remind us all that although technology is a great and necessary tool, we must not forget to stay vigilant in its proper use. This is especially true when it comes to our students. In today's reality, our students are using technology more often than we are probably comfortable. This ultimately means we need to be even more vigilant in how it is being used.
For our students, technology is not a magical tool but simply a way of life. They have grown up with these tools in many aspects of their lives. This is why it is incumbent upon us to remind them of its proper use. Below are five guidelines that can help achieve this goal.
- Technology should be used in a common area of your home. This will allow you to view what your child is doing at any given time. Allowing children to use technology in their private areas can create a false sense of security and lead to poor decisions.
- Limit the use of technology outside of classroom time. Students need a break from their gadgets. Try to find technology-free times. Although some use outside of classwork might be appropriate, try to find a balance for them as most children struggle with finding a balance on their own.
- Review the School’s Technology Responsible Use Policy. Talk to your children about the school’s Technology Responsible Use Policy. This guide will remind them of the proper ways technology should be used. Use these guidelines to help create rules for technology use in your home. Setting guidelines at home can eliminate confusion for students as to what they should and should not do.
- What goes online stays online. Children tend to forget that the Internet is a vast place and that often what is put online cannot be easily removed. Remind them that although chats, emails, or text messages might seem private, they are not. They should practice using thoughtful and meaningful language online.
- Become aware of today’s technology. Technology is ever-changing, and children are almost always the first to discover something new. Visit sites like Common Sense Media to learn about any technology tools of which you should be aware.
Please know that St. Philip’s is here to help guide you through this remote learning endeavour. Reach out to
me
if you need any resources or advice on how to keep your children safe online. Together, I know that we can make our students' technology use a more positive experience for them and us.
Regards,
Mr. Diaz
Director of Technology & Facilities
