XMA helps Durham schools to take the 'ICT Test'

Computer specialists - XMA, have been working on an innovative new ICT project in the Durham area, which is set to revolutionise teaching and learning in all schools.

The ‘ICT Test Bed’ project is a study, managed by Becta and funded by the DfES, which has been designed to examine ways in which ICT can be used to improve standards in schools and colleges. It is taking place in three areas of the country - County Durham, Sandwell and Barking and Dagenham.

 
Government studies have found that there is a direct link between the effective use of ICT and raised levels of achievement. Research has revealed evidence of the positive effects of specific uses of ICT on pupils' attainment in almost all National Curriculum subjects, particularly in the core subjects of English, mathematics and science.

The ICT Test Bed project, looking to build on and substantiate this and other research, is designed to give a number of schools and colleges access to very high levels of ICT hardware and software, while also providing the support that is required to maximise the use of the technology through programmes such as continuous professional development and change management support.

In Durham, XMA installed Cisco wireless networks into 9 of the schools involved in the project and two libraries. A total of 600 Toshiba notebooks were supplied to the schools and libraries involved. In addition, XMA also provided Lapsafes in which to store and recharge the laptops.

Phillip Smith, the Manager for the Durham ICT Test Bed explains the purpose of the project:

“One of the aims of the ICT Test Bed initiative is to measure the affect that ICT has on the standards of teaching and learning alike. The ICT Test Bed project is beginning to make the concept of ‘anytime, anywhere learning’ a reality for many children and adults in the communities of Willington and Crook. It is very exciting for this area and I am sure that we will learn a tremendous amount about the ways that ICT can enhance the teaching and learning experience.”

One of the schools involved in the project is Willington Primary School. Headteacher Mrs Griffiths believes that the introduction and use of the wireless network and the new ICT equipment and software is proving to be very stimulating for the children.

“The children are learning how to use the resources independently and their ICT skills have improved nearly as much as the staff. Being on a wireless network also works very well, because it means that we don’t have to have a dedicated ICT area and there are no health and safety issues about trailing wires.

“The children and staff are also able to use the laptops out of school, which means that they can undertake work at home if they want to. The other ICT equipment that we have here, such as the interactive whiteboards and the digital cameras are also very well used, and the children are learning new skills such as making digital movies.”

Kevin Evans, Sales Manager at XMA added: “It has been a great privilege for us to work on this initiative. The main area of our solutions work is in the education sector and so it is very interesting to partner with the Durham ICT Test Bed on this project, which will provide an insight into new ways that ICT can be used in schools to enhance the teaching and learning experience.”