Design and Communication Graphics – previously known as Technical Drawing for Leaving Certificate pre 2007 – is at the cutting edge of technology through its computer aided design software Solidworks.
Solidworks is 3-D parametric modeling software which aids in the manufacture of anything and everything. It is even used in industry in local factories such as Dairymaster and Leibher.
The subject was introduced in 2007with at the time top of the range Dell Precision computers.
As part of the department of education’s recent report, Ireland’s school computers were deemed too out of date and no longer fast enough to support the cutting-edge software needed for the teaching and learning of the subject.
“Technology is central to assessment in the subject, which was introduced for the Leaving Certificate in 2007 but it soon became obvious that schools’ computer stock was not up to scratch for it.Students in more than 400 schools – over half of all second-level schools – are now taking the subject,’ teacher Aidan Joy.
“School leaders have been putting strong pressure on the Department of Education for funding for new computers for these students, but it could not be found in the austerity era.
“Earlier this summer Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan told second-level principals at their annual conference that she was allocating €7m for spending on both new computers and the necessary software.
“Here at Castleisland Community College we were able to secure 24 brand new top of the range Fujitsu Celsius desktop computers based on the last three previous years of full classes in DCG for leaving certificate. The World is now firmly at the feet of our students and it is their oyster,” said Mr. Joy.
Teachers of the three technology subjects in Castleisland community College are: Aidan Joy, D.C.G & Construction Studies; Donncha Hickie; D.C.G & Construction Studies and Jacinta Buckley, Metalwork & Engineering.
