Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017
411. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Skills to outline his plans to formulate and implement a universal policy to ensure that students who are enduring extended absences from the classroom have access to daily lessons and homework assignments through an online platform or integrated system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1157/17]
View answerUnder the provisions of the Education Act 1998, the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school.
Ultimately it is a matter for each individual school to determine which particular measures are most suited to its individual circumstances and to how the school concerned organises teaching and learning. It is also a matter for each school, at local level, to arrive at its own homework policy. In keeping with good practice, the process of drafting a homework policy should involve consultation with teachers, parents and students.
While my Department, through the Professional Development Services for Teachers (Technology in Education), provides advice and supports to schools on the use of ICT in teaching and learning, the development of an online platform or integrated system for the specified purpose is a matter for the individual schools themselves.
The use of digital resources by teachers and students in schools is increasing. While conventional textbooks are still widely used, a number of schools have introduced or are considering introducing e-books and other digital resources to enhance students' work in school and at home.
As the Deputy may be aware my Department administers a number of Home Tuition Grant Schemes. One of the grant schemes provides a compensatory educational service for children, who for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school.
