Devices & Course Materials
St. John Bosco High School has a “Bring Your Own Device” approach to technology. Not only is this consistent with the tech approach in higher education, but it also allows students to select devices that they are comfortable with at a price point that each family has discretion over. Please see device specifications below.
The yearly course resources selected by each department are integral components of a Brave's learning journey. Students should be prepared to utilize these resources during and after course meetings. Please use this information to identify the necessary course resources needed.
- Questions regarding course textbooks, applications, or resources can be answered by your instructor on the first day of class.
- AP students are subject to AP testing and online course preparation fees.
- Course resources can be purchased or rented from a variety of online or store locations. The links provided to you are one option. Course resources that are offered in digital formats (e-book, pdf, etc.) are acceptable for use in class, with the exception of workbooks.
Device Specifications
- There are specific calculator requirements for certain math and science classes. Please refer to the class documentation for those specifications.
- There are specific laptop requirements for the Computer Animation course. Please refer to the class documentation for those specifications.
Applications
As many software packages are now available as web browser applications, the need to have required programs loaded onto every student computer is not necessary. As such, students must have a device that can provide them with online access. In general, students will need access to the following types of applications (other applications for use in specific classes may be required by the instructor):
- Word Processing (compatible with MS Word)
- Presentation (analogous to MS PowerPoint)
- Spreadsheet (compatible with MS Excel)
- Web Browser
Engineering Pathway Computer Specifications
The curriculum of Introduction to Engineering Design (9th grade course) will require students to create, design, discover, collaborate and solve problems. Students will participate in activities, projects, and problem-based learning.
One of the powerful tools used in Introduction to Engineering Design is an application for 3D design called Autodesk Inventor. The software will be made available to you once the school year starts. In order to use Autodesk Inventor you will need a personal laptop that meets the required computer specifications of this program. As long as your laptop meets these requirements (PC only), regardless of brand or price point, all should be fine. The requirements can be found below.