September 11, 2015

Desmond College Students Embrace Technology and Learning
through the launch of the new iPad Initiative.

The 31st of August saw over 70 First Year students arrive at Desmond College equipped with iPads ready to embrace learning through the recommended use of technology. Desmond College decided to launch this iPad Initiative in light of recent studies highlighting the advantages of using iPads in the classroom which include:

  • Facilitates more interactive learning for students
  • Students are more engaged in learning
  • Encourages independent and self-directed learning
  • Replaces the textbooks – no more heavy school bags
  • Students are eager to embrace technology
  • Provides instant access to endless supply of research
  • Excellent educational apps available for all subjects
  • It introduces ICT provisions for the new Junior Cycle
Some of the First Years explore their iPads in French Class
Some of the First Years explore their iPads in French Class
Some of the First Year students enjoying the iPad training from Wriggle
Some of the First Year students enjoying the iPad training from Wriggle
A number of the First Year Students displaying their iPads at their training day
A number of the First Year Students displaying their iPads at their training day

Along with these obvious advantages, other studies carried out by schools using iPads proved that:

  • Students using iPads saw their math test scores increase 20% in one year compared to students using traditional textbooks.
  • Students scored 23 percent higher on national exams than previous unequipped classes.
The Board of Management launch the iPad Initiative at a recent meeting: Miriam Montgomery (Parents Association), Margaret O Connor (Teacher), Donal Enright (Teacher), Damien Reidy (Chairperson), Bill Cashin (Parents Association) and Mike Cregan (LCETB)
The Board of Management launch the iPad Initiative at a recent meeting: Miriam Montgomery (Parents Association), Margaret O Connor (Teacher), Donal Enright (Teacher), Damien Reidy (Chairperson), Bill Cashin (Parents Association) and Mike Cregan (LCETB)
The iPad Initiative Team in Desmond College: Donal Enright, Dave O Brien (Wriggle), Deputy Principal Liz Cregan, Christine (Wriggle), Marie Corkery, Principal Vourneen Gavin
The iPad Initiative Team in Desmond College: Donal Enright, Dave O Brien (Wriggle), Deputy Principal Liz Cregan, Christine (Wriggle), Marie Corkery, Principal Vourneen Gavin

Based on all of this evidence and more, we are delighted that Desmond College has decided to show leadership in learning through the use of technology. To ensure a professional deployment of iPads in Desmond College we have the assistance of a company called Wriggle.

The Wriggle team has the expertise and the experience necessary to successfully integrate technology into the education environment. They are currently working with a number of the leading schools across the country and provide outstanding 1:1 support to our students, teachers and parents.