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Kildare school opts for iPads over books


Posted by SchoolDays Newshound on 29/08/2012. Kildare school opts for iPads over booksTags: Secondary School News

A school in Kildare has become one of the first in Ireland to equip its incoming first year pupils with iPads.

The Leinster Leader reports how Piper's Hill College in Killashee decided to "move with the times" and prioritise technology over books.

Principal Colm O'Connor explained how 172 students have been supplied with iPads, while teachers were given the devices in June so they had time to receive training on how to use them.

It was suggested iPads will benefit pupils of all abilities, including those with conditions such as dyslexia.

"I have no doubt that every school in the country will be moving towards technology in the next few years," Mr O'Connor remarked, adding the negative aspects of using the devices is outweighed by the positive.

Parents will have to pay €723 for the iPads, which can be paid up front or through a one or three-year loan.

Written by Donal WalshADNFCR-2163-ID-801437728-ADNFCR


Comments

Riccar

(30-08-2012 19:30)


This is a very worrying development. Please please consider that mobile phone radiation is classified as a possible Class 2B Carcinogenic by the W.H.O. The radiation from wifi and wireless technology is similar to this and can and DOES cause serious health problems. Children are at a greater risk. See the BBC Panorama report http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wu94lTfhZK8&feature=related

kennram

(29-08-2012 13:08)


fantastic. forward thinking is the way to go.

JohnMc

(31-08-2012 08:08)


Radiation, WIFI.... scaremongering!
I would think that the iPADS are being used without wifi - once the books have been loaded - in the schools. As to allow kids have constant access to the wifi and/or internet is just asking for trouble. There is no need for the kids to have further access to the internet once they have the schoolbooks.
So the above 2 posts should be aimed at the parents telling them to make sure their kids are not always on the wifi/internet when they are at home, not just a blanket statement - which when attached to a story about iPads in schools - seems to be aimed at schools!

kmt

(04-09-2012 09:59)


JohnMc: please, it's not my intention to scaremonger to raise awareness - unfortunately the downside of this topic is very scary but it is factual. I want people know now, when it counts. I agree parents also need to make safe choices at home. I am responding to an article about a school implementing the technology, and children spend a lot of time in a school environment.

If WiFi is not needed Kindles would be safer a less expensve option. I would ask the school if they are implementing WiFi and why?

Scientists and medical experts have been trying to get their findings across to the general public for years via the leaders of our communities. They, desite all their years of studying the biological effects - especially to children, are largely ignored. Yes here in Ireland too, so I would ask why is that? Labels and warnings would make the risks apparent and give us a choice. We just don't know and haven't been advised.

Precautionary measures have been set in place by other countries - Germany is one country asking for deployment to schools be suspended until it's proven safe. Wise choice. Prove it then we will use it. Until then we err on the side of caution and listen to the scientists and dr's reporting increased related health issues. Why test it out on our children? Please just do some research for your child's sake. Children absorb 60% more radiation than an adult does.(Stewart Report 2000) They are not mini adults, their developing immune systems and softer skulls and bones are susceptible to damage.

Parents as consumers of tech & guardians of children should know about the risks, but most of us don't. Parents often look to schools as educated community leaders and providers of the best possible environments for our children to grow and learn. Schools are unaware too. I've recently shared some information with my children's school and I'm asking myself why they don't know anything about this? Especially when the IDEA - Irish Doctors Environment Association has issued it's position on this and contributed to the Safe Schools Report 2012.

There are safer ways to use technology, such as using airplane mode & switching off bluetooth, using wired connections providing faster speeds and more security.

Why spend money installing WiFi & making parents pay for the equipment when it ain't broke? Ultimately the parents made the choice to buy the iPads for their children so the buck rests with them. But they should have been given advice about the risks prior.

Money used for this could be redirected to other areas desperately in need like our disabled and elderly community. Our children will not be educationally disadvantaged by not having this untested technology.
This organisation advises govts and health authorities: http://www.iemfa.org/

kmt

(30-08-2012 09:56)


Dear parents,
Forward thinking should be informed thinking. If you heard there was a group of scientific experts & many other govts around the world asking for a ban in schools of WiFi and wireless devices would you be interested in knowing about this? There is an Irish group of Drs trying to get the message across. Here's a refreshingly honest and eye opening report you should read & decide for yourself. http://wifiinschools.org.uk/23.html

Shane

(31-08-2012 11:11)


I still don't get the rush towards tablets, like the iPad. Would students not be better off with netbooks or small laptops - devices that have a proper keyboard, so they can use the computer for their exercises, essays and homework, as well as reading?

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