Frequently Asked Questions
Can students bring an iPad or tablet device instead of a laptop?
iPads and tablets are fantastic for many uses. However, in order to best accommodate the various needs our diverse subjects require, laptops allow students to work more efficiently and with maximum compatibility. Students are required to bring a laptop to school, but may supplement them with tablet devices / iPads.
What type of laptop should students bring?
Please see the requirements found on the Middle School and High School pages. The specifications were carefully considered to provide students with computers which support our diverse curricular needs, with the ability to handle the creation and editing of multimedia, access to a fast wireless connection, and battery life sufficient to make it through as much of the school day as possible. If you have further questions please contact our IT Dept.
Who is responsible for the maintenance and updates of these devices?
All maintenance for the hardware device, operating system, software and/or apps purchased by the family are the responsibility of the family. Please plan on a prompt turnaround time for any service or repair work to minimize the impact on the students.
How can students help protect their laptops from damage?
It is recommended that students utilize a protective "sleeve" to help protect against minor bumps and scratches while transporting them in their bags. To protect the laptop even more, a laptop case may be used. These are often plastic shells that fit over the laptop and remain in place.
Another common form of damage comes from the spillage of beverages onto keyboards - this generally results in quite expensive damage and can be easily avoided with care.
Is it better to get an Apple laptop or PC laptops like Sony or Toshiba?
Either laptop will work with our system. While most students do opt for Mac computers, we as Educational Technology (EdTech) specialists, recommend talking with your child and taking their wishes into consideration.
If I get a Macbook should I get the Pro or the Air?
Either a Pro or Air is appropriate for the BYOD program. If your child is enrolled in film classes or other classes that require heavy processing a Pro may be a better choice. However is not necessary as these classes have lab computers students can access.
Should I wait for the newest line of MacBook Pro's to come out?
It is always good to get the latest version available so as to preserve the longevity of the device. This being said there will always be a new version coming out every 6-12 months so it is impossible to stay at the newest version for long. Our recommendation is to buy the latest version available at the time given that all students must have a workable computer on day one of the school year. However if you are waiting to purchase a new computer and have a workable computer that can act as a holdover for a month or so information on when to buy new Mac products is available here: http://buyersguide.macrumors.com/
Do you need a CD Drive in your laptop?
You do not need a CD Drive in the laptop. Most software can now be installed via the internet or USB. ISM also has plug in CD drives that can be used on campus to install software via the IT department. If you would like a drive they are usually $100 at Mac or PC stores.
Will the school install Microsoft office in the laptop which I have purchased for my child?
Microsoft offers Office 365 to students and educators for free. Students can obtain Office 356 by creating an account here using their ISM email address.
What are the hours that the iCampus store will be open?
iCampus store is open from 7:00 am to 4:00pm Mondays to Fridays. You can contact iCampus directly at: icampus@ismanila.org
When ordering from iCampus do you get your device immediately after paying?
If the model you'd like is in stock, you should be able to obtain the device immediately. However, if you have any special requests such as a larger hard drive, more RAM, etc., you may need to place a special order. In that event, it may take many weeks to get the order in, so it's advisable to strive to plan ahead. Please contact iCampus directly at: icampus@ismanila.org