The new Microsoft Surface 3 IT system is being embraced on a pilot basis in a number of classrooms in Ireland, including Claregalway’s Coláiste Bhaile Chláir where it is said to be achieving exciting results.
First year students with Surface Pro devices using Microsoft One Note as a learning resource during their Spanish class at Coláiste Bhaile Chláir. Photo by Joe O’Shaughnessy via Irish Times.
For most schools, the vision of a completely Digital Classroom is still just a vision. In order to make a full transformation to a digital classroom, a tablet needs to support not only reading and typing input, but also writing which is a critical part of the learning experience. Surface 3 is the device that allows this to happen.
Students get the benefits of a tablet but also the keyboard and pen which is essential for coding or writing, whether typing or writing in the traditional way.
Alan Mongey, Principal, Coláiste Bhaile Chláir, said they are delighted to be one of only two schools in the country to try out the new IT system.
“Our school is just over two years old and we believe it is a great example of how a school can digitise the learning experience. We’re using devices in the classroom every day—we have built our curriculum and daily engagement between students and teachers through Microsoft technology. Our teachers have worked together with the students to create a new approach to teaching and learning.
“Within the classroom we no longer rely on the traditional textbook or e-book as the source of all information. With the support of Microsoft we have developed our own online teaching and learning resource which can be adapted and changed easily to suit each class or student,” he added.
