Function

The main functions of PDST Technology in Education fall into two categories:

ICT support services to schools

Providing relevant and up to date ICT advice and support to schools on a range of appropriate and suitable technologies
Coordinating the Schools Broadband Programme for all primary and post-primary schools, and managing the Broadband Service Desk as a single point of contact for schools to support the delivery of online content and learning resources
Designing and delivering a comprehensive national programme of continuing professional development for teachers to assist them in integrating ICT into learning and teaching
Supporting and promoting the use, application and development of digital content which is relevant to the Irish curriculum
- through the on-going development of Scoilnet as a portal site, which provides access to thousands of teacher reviewed resources relevant to the Irish curriculum.
- through the evaluation and development of digital materials and resources (including software) and
- project partnerships
Developing internet safety programmes, subject modules and advising on the development and use of, Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs) in schools
Supporting and facilitating leadership in schools as it relates to e-Learning planning
Supporting the innovative use and integration of ICT in schools through pilot projects
Providing a general ICT advice service to schools via the phone, email and website.

Policy development, strategic and administrative functions

Providing advice to & developing policy proposals for the Department of Education and Skills (DES) on issues related to the development & use of ICT in the Irish education system
Providing support to the Minister as regards strategic issues relating to ICT and education
Providing information and advice to other educational agencies on ICT in education
Encouraging the integration of ICT in education across other organisations, agencies, and in industry
Promoting curriculum innovations to enhance learning through the use of ICTs in the classroom.
Undertaking research on the best uses of ICT in education and on the status of ICT in education on a national level
Maintaining Irish involvement in EU and international projects related to ICT and education
Participating in and contributing to the work of a wide range of working groups and committees at national and international levels
Managing the funding for the administration of the schools ICT support service