Technology has become an essential tool in the weekly

teaching and learning that takes place at St. Patrick’s College. Students continually developed their ICT (Information, Communication Technology) skills in the key competency areas of; Word Processing, Multimedia, Spreadsheets, Database, Internet and Email, Computer Operations and Graphics. For our staff and students, technology has opened up alternatives to mastering ideas, concepts, processes and outcomes.

In addition to developing student’s skill levels in these

key areas, other applications are used to help enhance the learning process. This includes programs such as Flash, Director and Stop Motion Pro for animation, video editing using Pinnacle Studio, Photoshop, web design with Dreamweaver and Front Page, CAD using Solid Edge, Geometer Sketch Pad for use within Mathematics, plus many more specialised software packages to help students with their studies. The College also provides students with access to elearning technology through the digital learning objects provided by the Learning Federation.

The music department at St Patrick’s College boasts a large array of the latest hi-tech music technology to enhance, challenge and inspire students. From 2006 the music department will have one of the most modern keyboard labs in the state. Each student will have their own keyboard which will be connected to their own individual computer, which will allow students to compose, record and playback their compositions using software such as Cubase SE and Sibelius.

With the new Entertainment Industry Vet course offered at the College a brand new vision system has been bought. The vision system is made up of data projector fitted with a DVD/VCR combo unit controlled through a 4-channel video mixer. This multimedia setup will allow students the opportunity to learn how to use the equipment on a first hand basis.

Students are also provided with access to SOLE, the SPC Online Learning Environment. Within SOLE students can access course assessment schedules and policies, course outlines and scope and sequences and additional resources to help them with their studies. SOLE also provides students with access to the College calendar, subject calendars and a personal calendar to help students with their time management.

The College provides students with access to nearly 300 computers. In addition to this, the staff has access to over 60 computers, as well as the availability to connect laptops to the College networks at their desk.