Technology & You

Digital Learning Tools

The Halton District School Board is committed to delivering digital learning opportunities to all students to support global competencies.

All HDSB students and staff have a Google Workspace for Education and email account. Students in K-12 will not be able to use their Halton Cloud/Google Workspace for Education account for Google Workspace for Education Marketplace, Chrome Web Store or to register for a 3rd party website/application/software unless the software has been approved for education use by HDSB through the Software andTechnology review process.

Student use of approved applications are available through the HDSB Marketplace and HDSB Chrome Web Store. See Google Workspace for Education for additional details.

Students are provided with a variety of digital learning tools including:

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Google Workspace for Education

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Brightspace Online Classroom

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myBlueprint (6-12)/All About Me(K-5)

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Google Workspace for Education

Google Workspace for Education is a suite of tools designed to empower educators and students as they learn and innovate together. All HDSB students and staff have a Google Workspace for Education account and email. The HDSB has a contractual agreement with Google for Google Workspace for Education which is significantly different from a standard personal Google account. The agreement provides HDSB with content ownership, application controls & support and protection from advertisements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT GOOGLE WORKSPACE FOR EDUCATION LEARN MORE ABOUT GOOGLE WORKSPACE FOR EDUCATION PRIVACY AND SECURITY

HDSB students have access to the following Core Google Workspace for Education Apps.

Please note: Students in Grade K-3 have the ability to use the Google Workspace for Education apps within the HDSB domain only (cannot send/share with external accounts). Hangouts - meet and chat are internal only for elementary students.

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Calendar - Individual Calendar

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Classroom - Online Classroom

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Docs - Word Processing

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Drive - Digital File Storage for Educational Purposes

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Forms - Surveys

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Gmail - Email

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Hangouts Chat - Instant Messaging (Students K-3 - no access to this application. Grade 4-8 - internal only.)

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Hangouts Meet - Online Meeting (Students K-3 - no access to this application. Grade 4-8 - internal only.)

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Keep - Note Taking (Students K-3 - no access to this application.)

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Sites - Website Creation

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Sheets - Spreadsheets

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Slides - Presentations

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Brightspace

All HDSB students have a Brightspace account. Brightspace is an online learning management system provided to all school boards in Ontario through the Ministry of Education. It includes an online classroom and a portfolio tool to help students document and share their learning with teachers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BRIGHTSPACE

All About Me/MyBlueprint

All About Me and myBlueprint are tools for students, used by students. Students can use these interactive, online tools to become developers, assessors and curators of their own learning. These two tools support students with building and maintaining their learner profile, documenting and archiving their learning, investigating jobs/occupations and pathways planning.

All About Me is for Kindergarten to Grade 5 and myBlueprint is for Grade 6 to Grade 12 students. Both tools support the education and career/life framework (e.g. "Who Am I?" "Who do I want to become?" "What are my opportunities?" and "What is my plan for achieving my goals?") found within the Creating Pathways to Success document.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ALL ABOUT ME/MY BLUEPRINT

In addition to the above district provided tools, schools may select apps, websites or tools to use with students. In these instances, schools are responsible for the protection of student privacy and adherence to provider terms of service.

Some digital learning tools require that the HDSB share limited personal information such as the student’s name and email address for the purpose of creating an account to use the tool or service. Any content created in and/or stored in a district provided digital learning tool remains the property of HDSB. Personal information (name and email address) is used and shared by the HDSB for the above-noted purposes under the authority of the Education Act and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

​As emerging technologies like Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) become more prevalent, the Halton District School Board (HDSB) is proactively developing system principles, standards, and direction to ensure the safe, effective, and responsible use of these digital tools for student learning.

The following information details how GenAI will be available for students to use on the HDSB network and/or on HDSB devices such as Chromebooks. Parents / Guardians are strongly encouraged to have discussions with their children about their understanding and use of GenAI both at home and school and to monitor their children’s access to GenAI platforms when not at school.​

What is Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)?

AI is a computer system taught to mimic natural intelligence to help us understand and recommend information. AI helps power tools like Google Search and YouTube to suggest relevant content when you search, and it’s used within Google infrastructure to help keep data safer. Generative AI, or GenAI, is a type of AI that focuses on creating new content, such as text, images, music, and code, all by typing in a simple prompt.

AI enables powerful new ways to support educators and learners. In education, AI can be used to do helpful things like make learning experiences more personal, provide immediate feedback, improve accessibility, enhance digital security, give educators precious time back and so much more. As AI becomes more common in schools and the workforce, it’s becoming increasingly important that students learn to be proficient with AI-powered tools.

Source: Google for Education Guardian's Guide to AI

Understanding the Risks and Opportunities of GenAI

Opportunities for students utilizing Gen AI include assisting with research, aiding content development, facilitating differentiated learning styles, personalized learning assistance, and enhancing creativity, collaboration, and skill development. Learning the critical thinking skills associated with GenAI tools is essential for students who need to navigate an increasingly digital world.   

There are, however, risks associated with GenAI. Students may be tempted to use GenAI inappropriately in their coursework, raising concerns of plagiarism and academic dishonesty. There are significant ethical and equity considerations and, without critical thinking skills, GenAI can perpetuate societal biases and/or create false narratives. There is an increased risk of compromised student privacy and unauthorized data collection. We need to ensure the “human” element remains at the forefront of education and protect against diminished student and teacher agency and accountability and an overreliance on technology and less critical thinking. Finally, users should be careful not to enter personal information into any technology application, including GenAI tools as the information entered by users is stored on the application’s server. 

The top priority of the HDSB is your child’s safety. The HDSB is committed to innovation and developing global competencies while ensuring the responsible deployment of digital GenAI tools and safeguarding students’ privacy and personal information.  

Our goal is to create a learning environment where AI technologies empower rather than replace the human aspects of education. We embrace these technologies cautiously to prepare students for a future where these technologies are everywhere. 

GenAI Products Approved for Student Use in the HDSB

Information Services has conducted reviews of commonly used GenAI platforms in order to determine which tools are best suited to meet the needs of HDSB students. These assessments include technical, security, and privacy reviews and are conducted in collaboration with the HDSB School Programs Department.

Effective September 2024, the following GenAI products have been approved for use in the HDSB:

Secondary Students (Grades 9 - 12)

• ChatGPT
• DALL-E
  
• Perplexity
  
• MagicWrite
  
• Magic School for Students
  

Elementary Students (Grades 7 & 8 only)

• Canva/ CanvaEDU
• Curipod
• Magic School for Students

This list is subject to change as the industry continues to evolve and new products are developed. No GenAI tools are currently approved for use by students in the HDSB in grades K - 6. 

Student Use of GenAI Tools in the HDSB

Students may utilize approved GenAI tools in the classroom and on their own to produce, refine, and/or complete assigned tasks (e.g. research, writing):

1. with their teacher’s approval;
2. within the parameters established by their teacher;
3. in accordance to the age limitations/restrictions as determined by the GenAI developer and the HDSB (where there is a discrepancy, the decision of the HDSB shall prevail);
4. in accordance with all HDSB administrative procedures and expectations of students including but not limited to assessment and evaluation, academic honesty, etc.; and
5. with meaningful, signed parental/guardian consent (unless over the age of 18 or 16 or 17 years of age and withdrawn from parental control) using the letter template developed by Information Services for such purposes.
   

Parent/Guardian Consent

A teacher wishing to use GenAI in their classroom with students will send a consent letter home for parents / guardians to review. This must be done for every class/course where GenAI is planning to be utilized. This consent letter will:

• Identify class/grade/program
• Outline the nature of the activity/activities 
• Identify the GenAI tool(s) to be used
• Outline, at a high level, the privacy and security risks
• Provide links to:
  
• Technology & You (www.hdsb.ca)
• GenAI tool(s) & page(s)
• Contact information for both teacher and HDSB Privacy (privacy@hdsb.ca) 

Where a parent/guardian does not provide their consent, an alternate assignment(s) will be provided by the classroom teacher. 

Resources for Parents / Guardians and Students

Common Sense Media provides an overview of AI and reviews of several popular platforms including Bard, DALL-E, ChatGPT, and Stable Diffusion. Common Sense’s 5 Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Generative AI is a short, clear video guide for parents and guardians. 

With respect to Google for Education, the following two resources are excellent places to begin:

• Google for Education: A Guide to AI in Education 
• Google for Education: Guardian's Guide to AI 

The following provide some further reading on the topic of AI and/or GenAI in teaching and learning:

• Ethical AI for Teaching and Learning (Cornell University)
• The Promises and Perils of Generative AI in Education: TFA's Evolving Perspective (Teach for America)
• Generative Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning at McMaster University (ecampusontario) 
• What are the Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Education? (eSchoolNews)
• AI in Education (Education Next) 

More Information

Please reach out with any questions or feedback as we navigate this rapidly changing digital environment together. 

• For questions or concerns about privacy and consent with respect to approved GenAI tools, please contact privacy@hdsb.ca .
• For questions or concerns about the approval of GenAI tools, security, data protection, and/or the responsible use of GenAI platforms, please contact IT@hdsb.ca . 
• For questions about the use of AI and how it intersects with curriculum, assessment and evaluation, academic honesty, and other matters, please contact your child’s teacher or your school principal.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TECHNOLOGY ENABLED CLASSROOMS​​

WiFi in Our Schools

The Halton District School Board supports the use of WiFi in its schools and administrative offices in order to provide connectivity to resources and improve communication.

WiFi coverage is provided in all HDSB buildings including portables. As such, accommodations cannot be made for students whose parents/guardians request they are taught in a room where there is no WiFi.

Connect your Chromebook to Wi-Fi

To connect to the Internet, use a compatible Wi-Fi network.
Step 1: Turn on Wi-Fi

Step 2: Pick a network and connect
Connect to an open network
Select the Wi-Fi network .
Remember, your information might be visible to other people on this network. 

Connect to a secure network

Connect to an unlisted network
Administrators may hide networks so only certain people can use them. To connect to an unlisted network:

Information for this network is automatically saved so you can connect automatically later.

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Source: support.google.com 

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Additional Resources

WiFi Safety
Safety of WiFi Equpiment (Health Canada)

Virtual Reality

Coming soon

Tech Tips

We have built a HDSB Tech Tips web​site to support HDSB Staff and families in using technology and providing solutions to common technical issues, questions or ways to reach out to receive Technical Support.
VISIT HDSB TECH TIPS

Tech Helpdesk - a resource developed by the Staff and Students at JW Boich supporting tools for technology in the classroom. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of "smart" devices that connect and communicate via the Internet.

LEARN MORE ABOUT IoT

It is recommended to periodically review your digital devices and remove unnecessary files, pictures and applications. This will help protect against loss of information in the event the device is lost, stolen or damaged as well as the performance of your device.

Tips for Cleaning your Digital Clutter

Backup your device to a secure external device or network/cloud storage (include important files - photos, videos, apps and contacts).

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Delete documents, apps and unnecessary data from your device.

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Be selective on what you keep on your device (only add applications, photos and videos you use).

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Update your device password (optional but always good to periodically change your passwords).

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Set a calendar reminder for your next digital cleanup.

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VIEW #TechandU Tips on Twitter

Privacy

It is everyone's responsibility to safeguard and secure your own data, and be aware of your online presence.

Be aware of the latest trends/tricks that are harmful to your data profile. People are trying to compromise your private information.

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Get Cybersafe. Learn how you and your information can be compromised and how to protect yourself (ie., ransomware, phishing, malware, virus).

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Understand that information you are handling may be personal (yours and/or others) and needs to be treated with care.

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Before you share, THINK - Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inclusive? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind?

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Understand the terms and conditions of applications. When you click “agree” do you know what are you agreeing to?

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LEARN MORE ABOUT PRIVACY WITHIN HALTON

Additional Resources
Cybersafe
THINK Poster
Technology & You Poster
Cyber Security

Passwords

Suggestions to keep your password safe

Do not share your password. It is private and important just to you.

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Avoid reusing your password. If it is compromised, how many applications are impacted?

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If you think your password has been compromised, change it immediately and contact your service provider.

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HDSB Network Username and Password

At the Halton District School Board every student and staff member has been provided a network username and password. If you suspect that your HDSB password has been compromised take immediate precautions to let someone know.

Student - let a teacher know if you think your password has been compromised.

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Staff - If you feel your password has been compromised contact informationcentre@hdsb.ca

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Additional Resources
Administrative Procedure Electronic Passwords

Internet Filtering

Students in the Halton District School Board are expected to use the Internet appropriately and are taught digital citizenship and the importance of practicing ethical and legal digital behaviour.

The Halton District School Board blocks access to adult-content websites (pornographic websites) for all staff and students when on the Halton District School Board network.

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The Halton District School Board cannot filter nor log the Internet access of personal devices when users access a cellular network.

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Students are expected to:

• advocate and practice safe, legal and responsible use of information and technology
• exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports collaboration, learning and productivity
• demonstrate personal responsibility for lifelong learning
• exhibit leadership for proper technology use.

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Students follow the Responsible Use Procedures for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) which outlines the appropriate use of the Internet and defines appropriate behaviours. ​

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Review the Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about Internet Filtering.

Internet Filtering - Frequently Asked Questions

Social Media

Social media and electronic communication refers to online technology tools that enable people and organizations to communicate and share information and resources over the Internet (e.g. blogs, Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, email, texting, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok, etc).

Best practices for staying safe online

Before you share, THINK - Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inclusive? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind?

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Be in control of your online profile. If you don’t want it posted or shared speak up - talk to friends, family or teachers.

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Be aware of what is being posted about you – use your favorite search engine and search your name – see what your digital footprint looks like.

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What seems innocent and safe now could impact you down the road - once information is shared it is hard to unshare.

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Social Media Impersonation Policies

Know where your email/name is being used. If you did not sign up for an account, review the social media platform(s) impersonation policy and how to file a report:

1. Go to the profile of the impersonating account
2. Click on the cover photo and select Report
3. Follow the on-screen instructions for impersonation, to file a report

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Additional Resources
HDSB Staff Administrative Procedure Social Media

Cyber Bullying

Unlike other forms of bullying, cyberbullying involves harassing, humiliating, intimidating and/or threatening others through electronic mediums, including the Internet, cell phones, and other wireless communication devices.

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Some examples of cyberbullying

Creating a site or blog where the owner assumes the identity of another person.

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Impersonating another person as the author of content or messages posted online.

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Communicating material electronically to others or posting on a website that is accessible by more than one person.

If someone has created a social media account using your Halton District School Board email address, go to the site where the fake account exists, and request a password reset. It is a good idea in this case to also change the password for your @hdsb account, and anywhere else you may have used that password.