Pupils go digital to build their tech skills

Kids are building their technology skills as schools sign up in their hundreds to a digital teaching programme.

With growing emphasis on the use of computers and other gadgets in the classroom, teachers and schools have been critical of the lack of public investment in the latest technology. The issue is the subject of a Government strategy which invited submissions late last year, but the Digital Schools of Distinction programme is encouraging the best practices already in use in some schools.

More than 650 primary schools have signed up to the initiative, which provides not just a free laptop and software from supporters HP Ireland and Microsoft Ireland, but a range of education apps for use online and access to education IT specialists. The validation process has already been completed by 20 schools, highlighting some innovative approaches from schools and teachers.