Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 December 2015
11. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the provision of electronic tablets to school children to reduce the excessive weight of their school bags is feasible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43865/15]
View answerThe decision to use tablet devices is a matter for the Board of Management of a school. Where the introduction of new technology is planned, consultation with members of the school community including parents is advised. The cost and other implications must be fully considered by the Boards of Managements before a decision is made.
An advice sheet on the adoption of tablets in schools is available on the PDST-Technology in Education website which covers areas such as what tablets can offer a school, educational considerations, purchasing considerations and software.
As part of the new Digital Strategy for Schools my Department will provide advice on ICT equipment and digital learning tools that are best-suited to support learning and teaching in schools. €210m will be allocated over the period of the Strategy commencing in the next school year to fund equipment investment by schools.
