Using technology to enhance and enable learning.

At Albany Senior High School, digital technology is used to extend learning, support collaboration, and create flexible, inclusive learning environments. When used well, technology helps students make connections, explore new ideas, and take their learning further – both inside and outside the classroom.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

All students are encouraged to take part in our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) approach. Having access to a personal device supports learning across subjects and allows students to collaborate, research, create, and store their work using online tools.

ASHS is a Google Workspace for Education school. Students and teachers use Google tools for learning and collaboration, supported by a robust wireless network that reliably services the school.

What Type of Device is Suitable?

A suitable device is one that:

• is Wi‑Fi capable and can access the internet via a browser

• has a keyboard to support extended learning tasks

This may be a laptop, Chromebook, or tablet. Mobile phones are not considered a suitable primary learning device, but may be used to supplement another device in some contexts.

If a student already has a device that meets their learning needs, there is no expectation to purchase a new one. The BYOD approach simply supports those who may need to replace or purchase a device.

Chromebooks, Tablets, and Laptops

For many courses, a Chromebook or tablet provides more than enough functionality for learning, including research, collaboration, and cloud-based storage of work.

However, some subjects require specialist software that is better supported by a Windows or macOS laptop. Students studying the following subjects at NCEA Levels 1–3 may require a laptop rather than a Chromebook:

• Art – Digital Design

• Art – Photography

• Design and Visual Communication

• Digital Technology

• Food Technology

• Industrial Design Technology

• Media Studies

• Music

• Textiles Technology

Where Adobe software is required, devices should meet the minimum Adobe system requirements (see Adobe guidance for current specifications).

Care and Maintenance

Students are expected to arrive at school each day with a fully charged device. While power points are available on campus, battery life and charging practicalities should be considered when purchasing a device.

The care and security of devices brought to school is the responsibility of the student. Devices should not be left unattended, as this helps ensure their safety and supports responsible use.

If you have questions about device suitability for a particular course, we encourage you to contact the school for guidance.