Technology
Mulgrave offers students a stimulating, relevant, academic environment where technology is an accelerator of learning. Technology enhances inquiry, research, and creativity. It inspires critical thinking that connects to real-world problem solving and responsible action. Technology enables dynamic, individualised, and collaborative learning that is not bound by classroom walls, supporting our students as they make great progress in a rapidly changing, culturally diverse, and interdependent world.
Learning Technology
We aim to empower students to move beyond mere technology consumption into problem-solving, creation, and innovation. We know that technology can have a very positive impact on learning and achievement when it:
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engages students in learning
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supports higher cognitive activity
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personalises their learning experience
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extends learning beyond the classroom
Below is a snapshot of how technology enhances learning in the Primary Years IB Programme at Mulgrave.
Mobile Device-Free Campus
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering wellbeing and empowering our students to thrive, we implemented a No Mobile Devices on Campus Policy for all students on April 2024. This means that during school hours, students are not allowed mobile devices (both cell phones and smart watches). Rest assured, they have access to landlines throughout the school should they need to contact family members.
Technology and the Primary Years Programme
Students in Grades 2 to 4 participate in a 1:1 iPad programme throughout the year, while Grade 5 students use a 1:1 laptop programme. These devices offer opportunities for interactive communication and information exchange through global collaboration, authentic learning experiences, the expansion of the learning community, and empowerment for all learners. Our use of technology supports the broader school vision of enhancing and personalising learning, while developing the digital literacy and citizenship of our students.
Technology is seamlessly integrated into student lessons in support of curriculum objectives. Our teachers collaborate closely with our Learning Technology Integrationist to ensure that students not only learn key concepts but also harness the power of advanced technologies. In classes, students engage with artificial intelligence, virtual reality, robotics, podcasting, 3D printing, block-based coding, and more. This approach fosters creativity, computational thinking, and design skills, while also teaching students to engage with technology in appropriate, safe, and responsible ways. We want every student to finish the PYP with the confidence to be a creator of technology, and not simply a consumer.
We recognise the many advantages of using technology to support learning, but we also acknowledge potential dangers if used inappropriately. Teachers work with students and parents to ensure they understand these risks and have strategies to manage them. When considering the use of technology in the classroom, Mulgrave School employs the SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) for technology integration. This framework helps teachers thoughtfully incorporate technology in ways that enhance learning outcomes. By using the SAMR model, we ensure that technology use is purposeful and impactful, moving beyond mere substitution of traditional methods to create transformative learning experiences. Through regular monitoring and feedback, we strive to maintain a balanced and effective approach to screen time, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for deep, meaningful learning rather than a distraction and substitution.