In 2016, Grammar’s outgoing principal John Vallance expressed a concern regarding the use of iPads and screens in the classroom, stating that they could hinder classroom conversation and act as a distraction from traditional teaching methods. However, the school has since introduced laptops that can be booked by teachers for student use when necessary, according to Malpass. The school, which charges a yearly fee of $45,987, does not have a separate tech levy as part of its annual fees. Laptops are typically used for specific tasks such as assessments, research, projects, and group presentations, rather than as a default tool in all lessons. Grammar also values the importance of handwriting, as HSC exams are still largely written by hand.
While Grammar limits the use of screens for classwork, many schools expect students to use iPads, laptops, or Chromebooks starting from year 4 and 5, including for homework. The role of screens in schools has been a topic of debate for some time, with governments implementing stricter regulations on smartphone use in schools, and inquiries looking into the effects of screen time on education. Previous studies have shown that Australian schools are among the world’s highest users of technology. Grammar teachers have the option to use digital or traditional whiteboards in their lessons, and they choose not to burden students with excessive technology during school hours.
Approaches vary across different sectors and schools in terms of how digital devices are used in classrooms. Many public and private schools have a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, where parents are asked to provide Apple laptops or iPads for their children starting from primary school. Some schools, such as Rose Bay Public, have an “opt-in” device program where parents are required to purchase the latest generation iPad, headphones, and protective case. Others, like Coogee Bay Public, do not have a BYOD policy and provide a bank of laptops for student use. Matt Bower, an expert in education technology at Macquarie University, advocates for the incremental introduction of technology in classrooms, with close monitoring and support for students using devices.
Malpass emphasized that while laptops can be useful in certain lessons, relying on them as a default tool can be unhelpful and distracting. He also highlighted the school’s belief in the importance of handwriting, as it is still a key component of HSC exams. Lizzio, a teacher at the school, shared that their class periods are short and avoiding technical difficulties with devices allows her to maximize teaching time. The NSW Education Department stated that public schools have the autonomy to decide when and how technology should be integrated into their teaching methods. Overall, the debate over the use of screens in schools continues, with some schools embracing technology while others opt for a more traditional approach to education.
