The Impact of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) on Diverse Students and Teachers at Second Level

Abstract

This paper investigates the use of existing Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) by Irish secondary school teachers and students. Secondary Schools in Ireland are inclusive with a mix of students with diverse abilities in the classroom, including special needs students with learning and literacy difficulties, such as dyslexia. This papers looks at the use of three types of ICTs in particular: general-purpose ICTs such as word processors, focused special needs ICT tools like text-to-speech systems and online ICT curriculum-focused materials. Mainstream teachers and students and learning support teachers and students were surveyed on their use of ICT. They then undertook to use chosen tools for three months to complement their curricula and carry out software/tool reviews and evaluations. They then completed survey questionnaires on their usefulness and their impact on teaching and learning methods.