Teacher’s Perspective On Technology In The Classroom

 

Technology has become a central part of modern education, transforming how teachers deliver lessons and how students engage with learning. From interactive whiteboards to online research projects, much of this learning depends on having a reliable broadband connection. To get greater insights, we spoke with Hannah, a fifth-class teacher in an all-girls primary school in Dublin who shared her experiences of using digital tools in the classroom and how they shape both teaching and learning. 

A glimpse into Hannah’s classroom

“I teach fifth-class girls in an all-girls school, and I cover all subjects. This is my sixth year teaching,” she explains.

Having previously worked in learning support, and in a mixed DEIS Band 1 primary school, she now finds herself guiding 11-year-olds through one of the most formative years of primary school. 

Her experience across different age groups has given her a unique perspective on how children learn and how technology can play a role in supporting that learning. 

 

 

What are the technologies at the heart of the class? 

When talking about the most important tools in her classroom, Hannah points out the importance of the connected interactive whiteboard. 

“We have an interactive whiteboard in the classroom, which we use all day, every day. It’s like the centre of the classroom,” she says. “I put my timetable on it, use timers, show symbols for group work or independent tasks, and even use it to shuffle names and create groups in seconds.” 

The whiteboard is not just a teaching aid, it is a tool for structure, helping students stay focused and understand expectations quickly. 

Beyond the whiteboard, the school has invested in iPads and Chromebooks. “This year we got new iPads, and we had a training day on how to use them. I’d say we use them maybe two or three hours per week. We balance this with writing materials, textbooks and outdoor learning.” 

Other ways in which Hannah makes use of technology include creating quick Google Forms to check students’ understanding: 

“If I’m teaching long division in Maths, I might make a Google Form before the lesson to see if the children know the basics like subtraction and multiplication. I can instantly see who needs support.” 

This not only saves time but also allows for more tailored teaching, ensuring no child is left behind. 

How does broadband keep a classroom running smoothly? 

From admin tasks like communicating with parents to daily routines that involve songs, videos, and online resources, fast, reliable broadband is now integral to keeping the classroom running smoothly. 

When asked about the importance of reliable broadband, her answer is clear: 

“Even if we had no broadband for an hour, we would struggle… You can’t print; you can’t access the resources you’d normally rely on. It would throw things off.” 

This highlights how dependent schools have become on connectivity, not just for teaching, but for maintaining structure and communication. 

The impact of access to technology and broadband in her students’ learning experience is striking. Hannah shares that digital projects have been particularly successful: 

“Earlier this year, we did a Geography project where each child made either a physical presentation or a digital one using Google Slides. They got really, really interested because they could find the images and facts, they wanted online rather than being limited to magazines or books.” 

Technology also levels the playing field for children with learning needs. “For students with dyslexia, using voice tools made writing stories much easier. It was less daunting for them. And because the internet is so open-ended, they can research topics we’d never find in schoolbooks like when we researched how could mushrooms save the world for Science Blast.” 

Her experience shows that technology isn’t just about efficiency; it sparks curiosity, supports inclusivity, and allows students to take ownership of their learning. 

What are a teacher’s favourite digital tools? 

There are several websites and other tools that help Hannah make her lessons more interactive: 

“My favourite one that I use every day is called Classroom Screen. It has all the tools you need as a teacher—visual timetables, embedded videos, instructions for the day, even birthday banners. I’ve told other teachers about it, and now they’re using it too.” 

Other popular platforms in her classroom include: 

IXL Learning is a go-to for maths and English revision, while Wordle and Guess the Country add a fun element that still sneaks in learning. Quiz-based platforms like Kahoot and Blooket are firm favourites with her students, and Seesaw has become a vital communication link between school and home, allowing students to upload homework or audio recordings of reading practice and receive feedback directly from the teacher. 

She also uses audiobooks to support students of different reading levels, ensuring everyone can access class novels. 

“It’s just so helpful; these are things I couldn’t do by myself without technology.” 

Hannah’s experience is a reminder that while creativity and good teaching are at the heart of the classroom, the right technology – and the fast, reliable broadband to power it – can take learning to the next level. As the new school year gets into full swing, now is the perfect time for parents and schools alike to make the switch to 100% fibre, so every student has the tools they need to succeed. 

 

To check if your home is on the SIRO network, search your Eircode today.