First generation of iPad pupils start at the Coláiste

COLÁISTE Muire has gone digital with the introduction of iPads for all new first years. This follows discussions early in the year with parents, board of management and staff. School principal Jean Pound explained why they decided to take the plunge and move away from traditional school books.
“This was due to a number of factors. First of all, the weight of school bags has been an issue for secondary students for a number of years. It is estimated that many students are carrying a quarter of their weight in school books.

“More relevantly, these students are digital natives, they can use these devices intuitively so why not tap in to this and make learning exciting.”

She explained the cost of the new technology for each student is around €620. “For first years to get kitted out with books, it would probably cost around €500 to €600. And with these new iPads, the books are updated automatically so the investment really is over three years through their junior cycle.

“Parents have been most supportive. While the initial outlay did mean an investment, they see it as an investment in their child’s education and future,” she said.

While the pupils are all very excited about the new state of the art devices, Ms Pound emphasised, “This is not about the technology, although it places them in the world of the future. It is primarily about enhancing learning and teaching.”

The school has even provided a special iPad locker for the students to keep the new equipment in. All of the students received their iPads in the summer to get them used to the technology.

On returning to school, all the equipment was cleaned up and their school books uploaded. Ms Pound said all the pupils have the same apps that are all educational and they are unable to buy any of their own apps.

“The apps on the iPads will include Shakespeare, Dictionary, Ketnote, iTranslate, iThesarus, Word and so on. Teachers have taken up the challenge and are embracing change. They can connect to their iPad through their digital projector in each classroom. And they are busy sharing good apps with each other. All in all, it has been a very positive beginning, we look forward to an exciting year of learning and teaching,” Ms Pound concluded.