As a deputy principal and long-time educator, I’ve witnessed many technological advancements and ‘game changers’ in our classrooms. As I reflect on some of these I’m not so sure how impactful these really have been after the ‘dust has settled’. As my career has progressed, and maybe as I have matured, I’ve learned the importance […]
Balancing Technology in Education: Read More »
AI in Ireland’s New Programme for Government: Ambitious Vision, Implementation Challenges Following weeks of intense negotiations after November’s general election, Ireland’s “newish” coalition government, led by Fianna Fáil with Fine Gael and supported by independent TDs, has unveiled its roadmap for the next five years. The Programme for Government 2025, titled “Securing Ireland’s Future” (full
My first post for 2025 and following on from a previous post on Generative AI back in 2023 (which is still relevant today) I’m going to kick off #OneWord style. Without further ado my #OneWord2025 is Learning. After all, learning is our business and why we do what we do, isn’t it?! I hope to
I have recently started a lunch time Minecraft club in my school for 1st and 2nd year students. The aim of the club is to set up teams to enter the Dreamspace SEAcrets of the Deep competition. See more info about that here: The W5 Blog｜The Latest News At W5 | W5 Belfast Since setting
Using Minecraft Education as a Social & Educational Tool Read More »
Writing is a journey, and like any journey, it becomes easier with the right tools and guidance. Artificial intelligence (AI), in particular Generative AI, is one such tool that can transform how we support students during the writing process. By integrating AI thoughtfully, teachers can save time, develop creativity and enhance learning outcomes. Let’s take
Using AI to Support the Writing Process Read More »
Throughout my career in education, I’ve witnessed numerous technological advancements that were initially viewed as potential threats to the teaching profession. From video players to YouTube, these innovations never replaced teachers but instead became valuable tools in our classrooms and beyond. Today, I feel that we face a similar situation with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in
Embracing AI in Education: A Deputy Principal’s Journey Read More »
We regularly feature Microsoft’s brilliant Learning Accelerators on the TeachNet blog primarily because when used appropriately they have the potential to enhance core curricula delivery by personalising learning experiences, supporting a wide range of learning needs and by helping make the learning more engaging and effective through inclusive design, instant feedback and targeted practice.. In
Reading Coach – New Web & Store App Read More »
Are we fully aware of the impact AI is having on students? As part of some recent work, I developed four student personas to represent the mixed perspectives students are having in relation to using, or not using, artificial intelligence (AI) in their assignments (These are based on adult learners but likely useful to consider
Student perspectives on using AI to complete assignments Read More »
Just over a year ago I first wrote about Microsoft’s Quick Guides, a series of short PDF guides covering a selection of 365 apps and learning tools. At the time I quipped that the initial 14 guides were just for starters and in time the series would grow and encompass the entirety of the 365
Quick Guides – Get to Grips with Microsoft’s Learning Tools Read More »
Using Copilot to create class content can be a game-changer for secondary school teachers. However, the effectiveness of this tool hinges on the specificity and detail of the prompts provided. Detailed prompts ensure that the generated content is tailored to the teacher’s needs, saving time and enhancing the quality of educational materials. Why do specific
The Importance of Prompt Crafting in Copilot Read More »
