Technology is a tool for learning that is integrated throughout a student's experience at Notre Dame. We leverage the benefits of a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environment to provide students with a relevant and truly college-preparatory experience. Our school provides students with guidelines for responsible use of devices in and out of the classroom. Through our approach to technology, students increase digital fluency and develop skills that "teach them what they need to know for life."
Notre Dame students are required to purchase and use technology like any other daily school supply. We are a platform-neutral learning environment, allowing students to choose the platform (Mac or PC) that works best for them. However, each primary device must meet certain requirements. Details regarding devices and accessories are available below.
Note: Most tablet computers, including iPads, cannot be used as primary devices at Notre Dame due to the inability to install some required software.
Device Requirements
Students are required to have a primary device with the following features:
- Ability to download and install software
- Wireless access
- Two installed Internet browsers (recommended: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Safari)
- PDF Reader (ie Adobe Acrobat)
- A word-processing program
- Webcam
- Built-in microphone
- Administration rights for the device
- Anti-virus software or anti-spam tools
Laptop Specifications: Notre Dame High School does not recommend a specific platform and does not sell devices. Please consider the following laptop/netbook specifications:
Platform: Microsoft® Windows/Mac
Examples: Dell Inspiron 15, Acer Aspire, Lenovo IdeaPad, MAC
Processor: Intel®, AMD or ARM processor with 64-bit support Examples: Multicore Intel® processor with 64-bit support or M1 Apple Silicon processor
Recommended: i5 or better
RAM: 8GB or more
Operating System: MAC Sierra and up
Example: MacBook
*Students also have the option to use a Secondary Device.
For more information please refer to these details of device specifications:
Accessories
Students will need the following for their device:
- Battery that holds a charge of at least an hour
- Devices should be brought to school fully charged and ready to use.
- The Learning Commons and classrooms are equipped with electrical outlets for charging.
- Case, bag or other protective cover
- Headphones and/or headsets for personal listening and voice recording
- Chargers
Secondary Devices
ND students have the option to bring a secondary device. Please note the following:
- Secondary devices are not required.
- They may enhance students' learning experience, but will not replace the need for a primary device.
- Creating and editing documents may be challenging on devices without a keyboard.
- Some secondary devices may not display all web-based content correctly.
Examples of Secondary Devices:
(Note - None of these would be considered a primary device because required software cannot be downloaded or installed. )
- Chromebook
- Android Tablet
- iPad
- E-Readers - Nook/Kindle
- Smartphone
Software
In addition to the basic requirements for primary devices, course specific and schoolwide software is needed to support student learning.
Course Specific Software
Certain courses require specific software, most of which is available for free download. This list is dependent on a student's course enrollment and is subject to change. Examples include:
- Lame DLL for creating MP3 files
- Vernier Graphical Analysis
School Specific Software
The following web-based programs do not require software downloads, but are used by all students in our learning community. Students are issued accounts through Notre Dame High School for the following programs:
What does BYOD mean?
BYOD stands for Bring Your Own Device. It means that students can bring a primary device of their choice and connect it to the Notre Dame wireless network.
Why isn’t Notre Dame implementing a 1:1 laptop or an iPad program?
Notre Dame has chosen to adopt a BYOD program because it aligns better with our specific needs. For additional information, please refer to the Bring Your Own Device section.
How will I use my device on campus?
Students will:
- Create, collaborate and communicate with classmates and teachers.
- Access digital resources and class materials.
- Receive and submit work digitally.
Will I use eTextbooks at Notre Dame?
Yes, eTexts are used at Notre Dame. Information about courses currently using eTexts can be found on our textbook page, which can be accessed from the Quick Links section of our parent page.
What device should I buy?
Students need a primary device capable of downloading and installing software. Please refer to the device requirement information under the Primary Device Requirements section.
Do I need to install specific software?
Yes, students will need to download and install software as required. Please refer to the software information under the Primary Device Requirements section.
Should I get a warranty for my device?
Notre Dame recommends purchasing warranties for devices when available, as we offer limited tech support on campus.
What if I need help with my device or something breaks?
We assist students with accessing our wireless network and their campus accounts. Students have access to the HelpDesk website and IT staff. However, we cannot repair or provide extensive technical support for student devices.
Will my device be safe?
You are responsible for keeping your device safe and protected.
As stated in the NDSJ Student Technology Use Agreement, “Students are responsible for the security of their own personal computers. NDSJ accepts no responsibility for theft, vandalism, or intentional destruction of personal electronic devices. For security purposes, students' personal electronic devices must be in their possession or in a locked locker at all times.”
Does Notre Dame sell computers or offer a discount?
Notre Dame does not sell devices. Our BYOD program does not require a specific device or platform, therefore we are not eligible for mass-purchase discounts.
Can I bring other devices to school?
Yes, in addition to the required Primary Device, students may also choose to bring a Secondary Device. For more information, please refer to the secondary device information under the Primary Device Requirements section.
What about recharging my device?
You should bring your device to school fully charged and ready to use each day. The Learning Commons is available for charging devices throughout the day, and some classrooms may have electrical outlets for charging. However, it is important to have a battery that lasts at least an hour without being plugged in.
Since 2011, Notre Dame High School has implemented a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) technology program for students. The BYOD approach allows students to bring their preferred device to connect to Notre Dame's wireless network. This flexibility enables students to choose the platform and equipment that best suits their learning needs.
BYOD is becoming standard practice in major companies - Cisco, Informatica, Intel, HP. BYOD is becoming standard in industry as it has been at the college/university level. At Notre Dame, the BYOD program emphasizes:
Learning focused on individual student needs
- BYOD better supports the needs of each learner.
- Our educational model revolves around individual learning, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
A Neutral platform and individual choice
- Students and parents have the freedom to make individual choices from a wide range of available devices.
A flexible approach to technology integration
- Students learn to effectively use technology, not just one software or platform type.
Investment in faculty professional development toward the application of technology
- Professional development of staff, enhancing digital resources in the library and improving infrastructure are key spending priorities.
Instruction is student-centered, focusing on student products and 21st Century Learning Skills
- The adoption of ISTE Standards Framework facilitates a shift to student-centered instruction, using technology as a tool to capture and convey knowledge.
The application of technology in a college-prep environment.
- Students bring their own device, just like they will in college, and use our Learning Management System, Google Classroom, to access their course content.
What are 21st Century Learning Skills?
21st Century Learning Skills are skills considered essential for success in the modern world. It prioritizes learning and innovation that foster creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. These are the skills students will need to thrive in a rapidly-changing global community. (Partnership for 21st Skills - Framework for 21st Century Learning)
South Bay Accent Article
Notre Dame was featured in South Bay Accent magazine for its Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy as well as the innovative use of 'flipped' classrooms. Click to download the entire story.