Innovative ICT Projects:
Daynuv - "Immersive Education in Virtual Worlds"
Founded by Keith Kennedy and James Corbett, Daynuv has its roots in the IT department of Gaelscoil Ó Doghair in Co. Limerick. A multiple award winning primary school, Gaelscoil Ó Doghair is widely recognised as the most technologically advanced primary school in Ireland. Under the guidance of principle Daithi Ó Murchú the school is immersed in the traditions of constructivism and blended learning.
Daynuv specialises in virtual worlds for immersive education. With expertise in 3D modelling software and programming tools for children, Daynuv has created an exceptionally engaging and empowering learning environment. 3D learning software allows gifted children unlock the abilities which can go unnoticed in a traditional learning environment.
Virtual Europe is a 4 region opensim-based educational virtual world hosted on ReactionGrid. Built by Daynuv.com
Case Studies
Collaborating closely with Gaelscoil Ó Doghair, Daynuv has first hand experience in working with children of exceptional abilities. Connor was considered an under achiever before he was introduced to the Daynuv software. But he quickly excelled in using the 3D environment to build highly accurate and detailed models, revealing otherwise hidden talents. Conor also demonstrated his capacity for self-directed learning by figuring out how to source suitable textures on the internet and apply those to his 3D models with the necessary modifications.
Another student, Autumn, had socially excluded herself from her class mates and teachers. But shortly after she started using the software she found herself, unwittingly, collaborating with her peers on a range of design projects. Which coincidentally exposed a proven characteristic of online networking and collaboration - that a sense of community and camaraderie can only be crystallized around a common interest or purpose, referred to as the 'social object'.
Positive Outcomes
The children of Gaelscoil Ó Doghair are now often to be heard debating the finer points of design around such social objects, from the dovetail joints on a hotel balustrade to the appropriate flora for their undersea Atlantis.
In a virtual world imagination is the only limit.
Future Partnerships
In the next few weeks Daynuv will launch Ireland's first education dedicated virtual world in association with six partners, including learning institutions and social projects, drawn from across the country. The aim is to provide an online 'laboratory' and social network where teachers and students alike can build a collaborative learning environment with the same scope and possibility as their unfettered ability to imagine.
Disclaimer: This is not an expert site, it is run on a voluntary basis and as such is based on opinion and experience but we hope that it acts as a signpost for educational resources and other support services for Irish families with exceptionally able children. By using this website you accept that any dependence by you on such information, opinion or advice is at your own risk.
