Hosted by , contributed by Kyriaki_Vakkou on 15 September 2023
Rural school with virtually zero broadband connectivity or Wi-Fi access. This had meant that not all devices would have online access at one time. The lack of internet access led teachers to be reluctant to use devices, even when the internet was not needed, as the perception was that they did not work properly.
The school purchased the teacher and student laptops and had them configured. In particular, the school also purchased the NAT router, had it installed and had the system reconfigured to utilize it properly throughout the building and outside areas. The purchase of the NAT router has eliminated issues they have had with available IP addresses. After the installation, all devices can now access the internet successfully. This has led to a major increase in the use of devices for projects, research and presentations within the school. Both teachers and students are now more confident that the devices will work as needed and lessons are not interrupted by connection issues. For example, one of the school’s objectives for senior classes was to introduce them to Microsoft Office as a basis for writing reports, using presentation software and spreadsheets. With the arrival of the devices this has been possible whereas before access, if available was slow and inconsistent.
Teachers are more confident in using the new devices, and the improved internet access means that they can plan lessons that integrate technology without worrying about connection issues. This has meant an increase in the research and presentation methods that can be used both by teachers and students. Teachers are also able to access a wider range of educational materials whether relevant websites, activities or quizzes. Kahoot has made a reappearance in the school as a means of assessment. Previously inconsistent internet access made it virtually impossible to use.
Teachers also have access to Continuing Professional Development training through Wriggle. This has given teachers an opportunity to access online training at a time convenient for them. Resources and documents are now more easily shared between teachers using Sharepoint which means that there is no need to duplicate copies of them on every teacher’s device.
The students have access to devices that are more up to date and have few if any connection issues. This has enabled them to use the devices for research, projects and presentations. This did not happen previously as devices were old or incapable of connecting to the Wi-Fi due to IP address restrictions. Students are no longer frustrated by trying to use technology and there has been a level of excitement that didn’t happen before. Students have also been able to access information, on a consistent basis, resulting in more detailed and interesting work from them. They have learned and practiced their research techniques and become increasingly aware of how to research safely online.
Wriggle platform: https://family.wriggleconnect.ie/
Main CPD Platform: https://teacher.wriggleconnect.ie/
Sharepoint: https://www.microsoft.com/en-ww/microsoft-365/sharepoint/collaboration
Already implemented by the following schools
KIlcooley National School
This practice was implemented by our school!