Students on Inis Mór go digital

Students at Coláiste Naomh Éinne on Inis Mór have received ‘digital’ schoolbags joining Irish firm Wriggle’s digital learning programme alongside more than 150 schools using 30,000 devices throughout Ireland. The Coláiste is participating in the Wriggle 1:1 programme where students use mobile devices and digital resources for learning. Wriggle supports teachers using technology, helping to foster the digital skills required for the 21^st century.

Coláiste Naomh Éinne is the only secondary school on Inis Mór and provides full second-level education through the medium of Irish and under the umbrella of Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board. The school prides itself on welcoming all who want to learn and develop with the ethos ‘gach iarracht, gach cunamh do gach duine’ meaning ‘every effort, every aid, to every person’.

Principal Michael O’Culain commented: “With teaching and learning now we have to examine all avenues, and digital devices give our students great confidence. From day one they are using the device to help research, create presentations and learn through educational games on the device. We do not want our students to be at a disadvantage and by embracing technology we see new ways that they can learn and have some responsibility for their own education.”

He continued, “The best thing about being on the Wriggle Learning programme is the technical support provided between the parent and Wriggle, meaning the school is not dependent on the support and can focus on the teaching and learning.”

The Coláiste uses Microsoft devices. Wriggle Learning was recently awarded the Microsoft Windows and Device Partner of the Year for 2017.

Beryl Furlong, Managing Director: Wriggle Learning commented: “We are delighted to partner with Coláiste Naomh Éinne on Inis Mór. Underlying Wriggle schools’ deployments are the key elements of technology, content and pedagogy, which together play an important part in addressing the digital divide. The Coláiste is focused on developing digital skills and innovation, reaping the benefits of Wriggle 1:1 digital learning which include interactive, up to date content to engage students and increase attainment; the ability to cater to different learning styles and rates of progression; greater collaboration and instant feedback.”

Wriggle is a 1:1 mobile learning initiative enabling schools to transform teaching and learning environments. Wriggle has created a complete package, providing the necessary tools and support for teachers and students. Wriggle provides the mobile devices; access to digital textbooks and interactive content; professional development for teachers; comprehensive support and expert advice on ICT planning for schools.

For more information, please visit www.wriggle.ie or on Facebook – www.facebook.com/Gowriggle or Twitter –  www.twitter.com/Gowriggle