TAL Program

Updated 11/13/2023

Technology-Assisted Learning, or TAL (pronounced “tall”), is a program designed to incorporate advanced technology into our everyday learning. Students are allowed to provide their own laptops or tablets with a physical keyboard as a way to further their own learning both in and out of school for things like taking notes and reading e-books. Along with academics, the program also teaches cyber safety and digital etiquette. While personal devices are required, students will also have access to school computers.

The benefits of TAL are hard to overstate. Students who can seamlessly integrate academics with technology are better prepared for the rigors of university and professional life.

Requirements Updated 3/25/2021

The most important requirement is that students possess a 5Ghz WiFi device recommended by the Technology Department such as:

  • Chromebooks – 14″ screen size recommended, metal case preferred for durability. AND capable of running the latest Chrome OS (Currently version 118 as of Nov. 2023) or are less than two years old.
  • All MacBooks (Pro and Air from 2013 and newer) have 5Ghz AC Wireless built in.
  • PC laptops that have 5Ghz AC/AX WiFi. (see WiFi recommendation below).
  • Consider a spare charger for your locker/backpack. We don’t have spares at JD for every brand and model of computer. Google the part/model number on your current charger to find were to purchase a spare.
  • Students are responsible for keeping their devices free of viruses and malware. Failure to do so could result in being banned from the WiFi network. Please make sure your student’s device has an active subscription to software like (but not limited to) MalwareBytes to keep their computers clean.

NOT recommended: iPads, Kindles, netbooks, mini-tablets, and smartphones. These devices don’t have large enough screens or the necessary processing power and lack a physical keyboard.

IMPORTANT: Purchase a padded laptop sleeve/hard case to protect your computer investment.  If your student is enrolled in the, AP Computer Science, TV Journalism, or Yearbook classes they will need a Mac or PC. Hotspots are not allowed on campus because they can cause interference with the school wifi network.  The Introduction to Innovative Technology class requires a newer Chromebook that can run the latest Chrome OS.  Older Chrome OS devices will not run some of the web based programs this class uses.

WIFI RECOMMENDATION: Purchase a laptop with 802.11ac and/or 802.11ax which operate in the 5Ghz band for best performance on our WiFi network and AX is highly recommended. We do not support 2.4Ghz WiFi.

WIFI “types” EXPLAINED: Be sure to check that the device has 5Ghz-capable wireless (Wi-Fi), or you must purchase a USB dual-band Wi-Fi adapter. The specs will usually be listed as “dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax.” The “b” and “g” types are 2.4Ghz, the “a” type is 5Ghz, and “n” can be either 2.4Ghz and/or 5Ghz, so don’t rely on just “n” being listed. If it lists “dual-band” or it has the “a” and “n” or “ac” or “ax” types listed it’s a 5Ghz-capable device.

Families who do not have the means of purchasing a digital device may contact our Finance department during the summer. Support will be provided at the rate of tuition aid eligibility.