Parents like it too
Initially most parents are very pleased that schools are offering their children the chance to gain valuable computer skills by taking part in a ‘cool’ sounding programme. However, they soon realise that DigiSmart does much more for their children, particularly in relation to reading, communication, motivation and self-belief.
The enthusiasm of the children rubs off on parents and this motivates them to do their utmost to ensure their children’s attendance.
Parents also become interested in what is happening in the DigiSmart sessions and regularly attend to watch their children stand up and deliver presentations in public.
Over the years many of our partner schools have told us that parents who would not often be seen in school do make a point of coming in to collect their children from DigiSmart and to look at the work they have been doing. They also come into school when children present their work.
Seeing their children change is also a motivator for some to re-engage with learning. The technology aspect of the project assists this because the pace of development in this area means that nearly everyone is a learner. For example, there is for many adults less stigma attached to a lack of computer skills than there is in relation to literacy.
"My son always saw anything that involved reading as a problem. But DigiSmart has changed all that and now he is reading. It has had such a positive knock on effect with his classwork and homework. Now he has started going to a drama club and loves it. Experiencing success at DigiSmart has given him the confidence to have a go at things he was afraid of trying.”
Parent of DigiSmart child
"The fact that parents have supported their children and come in to see the work they are doing in DigiSmart is very pleasing because we don't generally have a lot of parental involvement. DigiSmart has encouraged them into the school."
Headteacher of DigiSmart partner school
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