Minister Naughton Urges Schools to Ease Financial Burden of Digital Devices on Parents

Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton has appealed to school principals to alleviate the financial strain on parents, following reports that some schools mandated the purchase of iPads and other digital devices.

Minister Naughton intervened after parents expressed concerns, prompting her to issue a letter to all school principals. In her correspondence, the Minister clarified that there is no official requirement for students to possess their own laptops or digital devices for either the Junior Cycle or the Senior Cycle curricula.

The Minister referenced research commissioned by her department, which indicates that mere access to digital technologies does not inherently guarantee improved educational outcomes. She acknowledged that decisions regarding the use of digital devices are ultimately the responsibility of each school's Board of Management.

However, Minister Naughton noted a trend where an increasing number of schools have either implemented or are contemplating arrangements that necessitate students using digital devices. In some instances, these arrangements involve school-facilitated purchasing programs with third-party providers. She highlighted that some parents are being asked to incur substantial expenses for these devices, with certain families even directed towards commercial credit arrangements to cover the costs. The Minister emphasized that such requirements impose a significant financial burden on families, particularly those unable to afford the purchase of these devices. The letter further advises schools to consult with parents before making any decisions and to consider the perspectives of all parents, including those not affiliated with a parents' association.