As a 1:1 school, all CCHS students are required to bring a notebook or laptop to support their learning, beginning in Gr. 9. This approach ensures that students have access to digital tools essential for personalized learning, online resources, and collaborative projects. While parents are responsible for supplying the device, loaner laptops are available through the school library for students who may need temporary access.
One-to-One Learning
The Benefits of Being a 1:1 School
Current research highlights immense benefits of 1:1 schools, which goes far beyond simple access to technology.
With a personal notebook or laptop, students can:
- Engage in formative assessments that provide real-time feedback on their learning.
- Experience individualized instruction tailored to their unique needs.
- Benefit from self-guided pacing, allowing them to progress through material at their own speed.
- Access a wealth of online resources that enhance their understanding of complex topics.
- Foster collaboration and interaction with peers through digital platforms.
- Utilize networked communication for managing materials, assignments, and projects.
A study by Dunleavy, Dexter, and Heinecke (2007) confirms these benefits, showing that 1:1 laptop programs significantly enrich technology-supported teaching and learning.
Furthermore, Alberta Education’s Emerge Project, a three-year study of 1:1 laptop implementation in Alberta schools, found that students became more proficient in using technology to enhance their learning. Emerge students demonstrated increased engagement in critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and the creation of technology-based projects, showcasing their ability to access and utilize diverse online resources and communications to deepen their educational experiences.
The 1:1 laptop program not only equips students with essential tools for today’s digital world but also fosters an environment where they can thrive academically through personalized, connected, and collaborative learning experiences.
Hardware Requirements
At CCHS, we use Google Classroom for student course materials, resources and learning activities. This can be accessed easily with a 10-12" Chromebook. The advantages of this device is:
- low cost ($250-$350)
- light weight
- reasonable battery life (10 hours)
- multi-tasking capable
- support Flash and multiple browsers
Students are welcome to bring full size laptops including Macbooks. Laptops with screen sizes larger than 15" tend to be quite large and heavy and may not be as portable. Tablets, including iPads are not fully supported by Alberta Learning for accessing LearnAlberta.ca resources and PAT/Diploma exams.
Check My System
If you already have a machine for your child to use, please visit this website to run the computer check for recommended hardware and plugin updates. Some of the resources on this site require plug-ins or players that may not be installed on your system. The Check My System feature will:
- Find out if your computer has the necessary plug-ins and players installed.
- Provide links to free downloads that will ensure you can use all of our resources.
- Check my computer
Technical Specifications
This page lists the current Plugins and Players specified by Alberta Learning as minimum requirements needed to access Learning Resources supplied by Alberta Learning.
Software Requirements
Recommended Software and Tools
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Antivirus Protection: Ensure your child’s laptop has anti-virus protection to protect against security threats.
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Productivity Tools: Google Suite is a key resource for classwork and collaboration.
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Web Browser: Chrome is recommended for accessing cloud-based tools and applications efficiently.
