This briefing session is designed to provide practical information for schools considering embarking on a 1:1 Notebook/Tablet PC program within the next 3 years. Come and learn from experienced schools in both the public and private sector, on how to gain support from the wider school community and how to successfully implement a 1:1 technology program.

The briefing will begin with an overview from Penrhos College and Frankston High School, outlining the critical success factors associated with each stage of a notebook program roll-out, including planning, implementation, evaluation and ongoing development. Other aspects that will be discussed will include how to get staff onboard with the initiative, the optimum PD model, what types of software applications to consider, Tablet PC's v Notebooks, upfront and ongoing costs associated with the program and how much you realistically need to spend on network infrastructure.

The second stage of the session will be an open forum, providing you with the opportunity to have all your questions answered by the panel and have a frank discussion with schools who are also in the research and exploration stages.

Penrhos College

Penrhos College is a Uniting Church day and boarding school for girls, Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, located in Perth.

Participants at this briefing will already have perceived the educational benefits which a 1:1 notebook program can provide for learning in the 21st century. We have had a notebook program in place since 1997 – initially from Years 5 to 10, but in 2008 through to Year 12.

After 10 years with a notebook program, we are able to reflect on what have been the significant catalysts for success and ongoing development, things we would have differently and who and what have been the potential 'blockers' to the successful implementation of our program.

My presentation of the Penrhos College notebook program will outline those factors which I believe are critical for success at each of the stages of a notebook program implementation - planning, implementation, evaluation and ongoing development.

This will include:

• strategic issues including policy, human and physical infrastructure and resources, and ongoing funding implications
• tactical issues including ongoing staff professional development, ongoing student skill development and high level technical support
• operational issues including student well-being and safety, Occupational Safety and Health, data security and storage.

Frankston High School

Frankston High School is a large academic State school in Victoria with a long history in the classroom use of technology. The school has had a non-compulsory notebook program since 1995 and has more recently introduced Tablet PC's with over 300 students utilizing pen based technologies this year.

The school has strived to upskill it's teachers enabling them to effectively use technology to enhance students learning. The inception of a full time Online Curriculum Facilitator has enabled teachers to more quickly adopt technology and has given teachers with limited courage the support they need to take the next step with technology in the classroom.

It is hoped that through this Strategic Briefing you will have a chance to speak with people who have implemented 1:1 programs in their own school, and be able to ask their advice as to how these school address some of the burning questions you may have.