Teachers have tech get together in Tip

Life

Delegates from primary and secondary schools discussed subjects such as the effects of technology on educational practice, the impact of community sites like Bebo and sourcing educational content online.

Making information and communications technology (ICT) part of the curriculum instead of an accessory to learning has become a strategic goal of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. Mary O’Leary, presenting the NCCA ICT framework, explained the ICT framework. “Learning experiences are met in an integrated manner,” she said, as opposed to working with separate computer classrooms.

The Department of Education and Science has launched a Digital Schools Award and Robbie O’Leary, principal, Sacred Heart Senior National School, Tallaght, described it as “a standard to be aspired to”. O’Leary, well-regarded throughout Ireland for his hands-on implementation of ICT in education, also believes the government needs to set aside funding for IT infrastructure in all schools. “Every child benefits from regular, structured ICTs,” he said. “If we are talking about technology in schools, we are talking about children learning.”

“Internet technology is having a significant impact on teaching and learning,” said James Greenslade, digital learning expert at Tipperary Institute. Greenslade pointed to “the use of technology in online classrooms, videocasting and podcasting” and he predicted these teaching methods “will become widespread over the next couple of years.” In most cases, laptops and multimedia players now serve as primary tools for study and revision. This trend is not far away for younger pupils.

The staff at Tipperary Institute have set up an education podcast available through Itunes to discuss initiatives arising from the internet experience for schools conference. Local teachers can find more details at www.TippInst.ie/schools where all conference presentations appear free for electronic download.

Read More: Education & Research