Wednesday, 06.01.2010
Schools to get free access to online encylopedias

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.

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

Announcing the move, Education Minister Batt 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."

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