Software on Disc

Learning software and websites can support and foster understanding, create opportunities to simulate real life activities and test comprehension, for example, NALAs Technology at work CD includes a simulation of using mobile phone and a cash machine. The Really Useful Guide CD covers, among other things, booking flights online.

Software on Disc

Driver Theory Test

A driver theory test was introduced in Ireland in 2001 to supplement the practical driving test. Prior to this, motorists in Ireland were not required to undergo a test of their knowledge of either the rules of the road or motoring legislation in Ireland before they applied for a driving licence, or completed their driving test.

EU legislation governing this area now requires that citizens undergo a practical test of their knowledge of the rules of the road and motoring legislation.

The theory test will check knowledge about areas such as:

• The rules of the road
• Risk perception
• Eco-driving
• Hazard awareness and
• Good driving behaviour.

The test is conducted at a nation-wide network of 45 test locations and uses a user-friendly computerised system. The Driver Theory Testing Service is operated on a basis similar to the basis on which the National Car Test (NCT) is run. The test can be offered in Irish and in English and candidates with special needs are catered for.

Since the commencement of the Driver Theory Testing Service on 11 June 2001, a theory test certificate must be obtained before a first learner permit (formerly called a provisional licence) in a particular vehicle category is granted.

The Test

There are 40 questions in the test and candidates have to answer 35 questions correctly to be successful. You have 45 minutes to answer the 40 questions in the test.

The test is taken using a touch screen computerised system. Candidates select their answers by touching the computer screen. A practice session can be undertaken before you take the actual test so that you can get used to the system. You don't need to be computer literate in any way.

If you have any difficulty with reading, there is a 'voice over' option that will read out the questions to you. Appropriate pictures or colours will indicate the different answers on the screen and you select your answer by touching the picture or colour.

A number of students are attending South Tipperary VEC Adult Learning Scheme for help with the Driver Theory Test. Each centre has copies of the disc containing the most recent edition of the test (3^rd)

Tutors working with students on the Driver Theory Test will also have access to the book which accompanies the disc.

NOTE

On receipt of a letter from the scheme stating a students literacy difficulties, the test centre will close for that students test and provide a person to read the questions to the student.

www.theorytest.ie

Literacy Tools

Literacy tools from NALA is for adults who would like to improve their spelling, reading and numeracy skills.

Disc contains:

• Print exercises
• Online exercises
• Games
• Tutor Resources

http://www.literacytools.ie

Really useful Guide

The Really Useful Guide to Words and Numbers is a Distance Learning project co-ordinated by the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). The project is funded by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland and the Department of Education and Science.

The Really Useful Guide to Words and Numbers project aim to provide basic literacy skills for a broad and unidentified audience. The project is targeting people who are not involved in existing literacy services, thereby providing them with basic literacy learning. In addition it is hoped that the series would raise awareness of literacy issues amongst the general population.

This disc covers areas such as paying bills, using ATMs and taking train journeys. There is also a comprehensive website at www.rug.ie

Technology at Work

This CD contains interactive exercises to learn:

· Mobile Phone

· Fax/copier

· Phone

· Computer

· Getting paid

· ATMs

Ultimate Phonics

Ultimate Phonics is a widely used, proven program that teaches reading with phonics. It is a complete program, consistent with scientific research, that covers all the phonics sounds and rules of English. The program includes a computer CD-ROM, a book of reading material, and a User's Guide. Its purpose is to thoroughly teach your students the strong phonics skills that are the foundation of good reading and spelling. This disc is available at all of our centres.