Vocational College Freiburg (GIBS).

How has GIBS developed digitally in recent years?

At the beginning of the digitalisation process, every classroom had at least one computer reserved exclusively for teachers. Over the past two years, however, every teacher has received a laptop from the state of Fribourg. Meanwhile, students are increasingly being asked to bring their own laptop or tablet to school, such as an iPad.

Why did you decide to use tablets at school?

Our school launched a pilot project to make it easier for cooking apprentices to transport heavy cookery books and other teaching materials between work, home and school. Following its successful completion, around 40 more iPads were purchased. Teachers can reserve these for their classes, as we do not have enough IT equipment.

How did the collaboration with DQ Solutions come about?

We originally worked with a company in Freiburg. After it closed, we looked for a new partner. As we already knew some of the DQ Solutions employees, including Patrick Bazzo, we knew we were eager to work with them in the future.

What role did/does DQ Solutions play in GIBS?

We currently use DQ Solutions as our main contact for Apple products and our JAMF MDM system.

Do you also use services from DQ Solutions?

Yes, we use various device management services, ranging from Apple School Manager to JAMF Pro.

In what ways does DQ Solutions support you in the educational and didactic fields?

We have regular opportunities to attend DQ Solutions courses.

How does GIBS manage the numerous iPads? Is an MDM used?

JAMF Pro is used to efficiently manage our 150 or so iPad devices.

Has teaching changed with the use of the iPad? Has it become more individualised, more exciting or more creative? What new possibilities have opened up?

Unfortunately, the iPad has not yet fundamentally changed teaching. So far, it has only been used sporadically for activities such as internet research.

Is the use of technology changing how we learn and teach?

Technology is undoubtedly changing the way we teach. It opens up new opportunities to enrich lessons with a variety of activities. However, it is important to view technology as a supporting tool rather than a necessity.

What were or are the challenges for teachers?

The biggest challenge for teachers is to familiarise themselves with the devices and technology first, so that they can then integrate them into their lessons convincingly and motivatingly.

Which apps are used most frequently?

The Office 365 applications are the most frequently used.

How do pupils deal with the new opportunities?

Double authentication is currently the greatest difficulty for students. While they manage basic applications quite well, they are still a long way from achieving good results with specialised ones.

What does the digital future hold for GIBS?

The digital future of our school lies in the fact that, in the near future, every learner will probably need to bring their own device, be it a laptop or a tablet, into the classroom. The concept of «Bring Your Own Device» (BYOD) is becoming increasingly relevant, which is why we need to prepare teachers and students accordingly.