05 January, 2010 - Minister O'Keeffe announces free online encyclopedias for 4,000 schools

The country's 4,000 schools are to get free access to online versions of the popular Encyclopedia Britannica and World Book as part of an e-Learning initiative announced today  by the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O'Keeffe TD.

The online encyclopedias use text, video clips, three-dimensional simulations, research aids and other new media in presenting information to students.

Announcing the online move, Minister O'Keeffe said: 'Making these encyclopedias available online to schools free of charge demonstrates our commitment to providing digital reference content to teachers and students in a way that encourages learning through technology.

'The range of information available to schools through these encyclopedias will enrich students' learning experience and deepen their knowledge of the sciences, humanities, arts and other areas.

‘The schools broadband network enables us to deliver targeted digital resources directly to teachers and students through the scoilnet.ie website.

'As Minister, I attach particular significance to progressing the integration of information communications technology into teaching and learning.

'Today's move to give schools access to digital reference content online follows the Government's launch of a €150 million plan for "smart schools" which will give every classroom in the country a teaching laptop, software and digital projector over the next three years.'

With over 11,500 learning resources and an average of 180,000 visits each month, scoilnet.ie is an important online resource for primary and post-primary schools.

The Department pays an annual licence fee of €450,000 to Encyclopedia Britannica and World Book to authorise schools to use the online resources.

Colm Hoban, Director of Government Markets in Eircom, said: 'Eircom is delighted to support the provision of digital content to schools on our broadband network.

'Today's announcement is a key milestone for the NCTE and the Department of Education and Science and Eircom will continue to partner with them in providing high-quality digital resources for learning and teaching.'

ENDS