The Department of Early Education and Child Development (DEECD) will standardise on Cisco wired and wireless networking in up to 1000 Victorian schools as part of a $120 million State Government ICT investment.
The education-grade network will support possible future demand for one-to-one computing, mobility for different learning spaces, high-definition video, digital content and an online learning platform across primary and secondary schools.
DEECD Office for Resources and Infrastructure deputy secretary, Jeff Rosewarne, said the investment would ensure Victorian Government school students remained at the forefront of a “rapidly changing digital world”.
“In the classroom this means students will have access to more computers which are linked to high-speed broadband provided through the VicSmart initiative," Rosewarne said in a statement.
"The Ultranet – a 21st century online learning platform that will connect students, teachers and parents in every Victorian government school is now up and running.”
The DEECD said its use of the networking technology would create media saturated online programs with a focus on video and collaboration, automated administration processes, while protecting school resources and maximising learning.
In March, the DEECD announced the set up of a supplier panel for Polycom high definition videoconference equipment and support services following its decision to standardise on Polycom’s videoconferencing products in 1,553 Victorian Government schools and DEECD corporate areas.