The Ultranet is here!
Our school is logging into the future with the Ultranet, a new online learning system for schools. The Ultranet is a state-wide, secure site that teachers, parents/guardians and students can access via the internet.
Our students and teachers will be able to collaborate in the Ultranet using online tools such as wikis, blogs and discussion forums. Students will be able to create their own online learning portfolio and take part in online learning activities. Teachers will be able to access and share valuable online learning content across Victoria.
From December, you will be able to log in and see information about your child and our school. This information will build up over time, creating an ongoing record for each student. These records will travel with your child from year to year and school to school.
Between now and then, we will give you more information about the system and how you and your child will be able to use it.
Our school’s timeline for introducing students to the Ultranet
This is how we plan to introduce the Ultranet into our school this year:
1. From September this year, our teachers have been learning how to use the Ultranet. During November we will gradually bring students into the system. Initially we will focus on learning goals and a digital portfolio.
2. From December this year, you will be able to log in and see information about your child such as their learning goals and digital portfolio.
3. Prior to this, you will receive a user guide and a letter inviting you to register for your login and password to the Ultranet. To register, you will need a valid email address.
Some basic privacy information about students using the Ultranet
The Ultranet is accessible to school staff, teachers, students and parents/guardians in Victorian government schools. It is a closed website that cannot be accessed by anyone else on the internet.
Health or welfare information about your child is not visible in the Ultranet. (Health or welfare information includes medical, behavioural, birthday or contact details.) In fact, the only visible personal information about your child in the Ultranet will be their name and school photograph (unless you notify the school and request the photograph is not used). All other information on the Ultranet about your child will be specific to their learning.
Currently learning information about a student can be seen only by that student and teachers at our school. From December you can see information about your child.
Who can see student information in the Ultranet?
/ A personal space for your child and their teachers to capture, share and reflect upon their learning./ Where your child can take part in online learning activities set up by their teachers. Students use a range of Web 2.0 tools for learning, including blogs, wikis, message boards and polls.
Where you and your child can find the latest school news and events and get involved in school-based groups, clubs or activities.
More information
If you’d like more information, please go to www.education.vic.gov.au/ultranet, www.whitehorseps.vic.edu.au or talk to Paul Merriweather.
Kerry Wood
9878 9339
Newsletter 10 Nov 2010