Tag: #sdcc

Amazon launches ‘Think Big Circle’ to connect Irish students with peers worldwide

Today, 25 students from Gaelscoil na Giúise in Tallaght will join 130 schools from over 30 countries to compete in the Coding4Mandela Tangible World Cup.

Sponsored globally by Amazon, the event marks the official launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle, a global collaboration platform designed to connect and empower Amazon Think Big Spaces worldwide.

The Tangible World Cup is an annual online competition that brings together learners to solve engaging, never-before-seen Tangible Coding challenges. This unique unplugged approach teaches key problem-solving and coding skills using physical grids, tokens, and mobile devices.

Following the launch, the Amazon Think Big Circle will become the central hub for continued collaboration, supporting the co-creation of programmes, peer-to-peer learning, and innovative global events that inspire creativity and build community impact.

Opened in 2022, the Amazon Think Big Space in Tallaght was the first of its kind to launch in Europe, and was created in collaboration with South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and South Dublin Libraries to provide a place beyond the classroom for students to explore and cultivate an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) and STEM-related careers.

The facilities were thoughtfully designed to ensure that students and the wider community have access to high-quality resources to learn about cloud computing and technology in an equitable way. To achieve this, AWS has donated interactive screens, tablets, VR headsets and other resources to furnish the Amazon Think Big Space, and create an immersive, hands-on approach to learning.

Joanne Reynolds, Regional Community Engagement Manager at AWS in Ireland, said: “The launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle marks an exciting new chapter for the Amazon Think Big initiative, and global learning and collaboration. We are delighted to have Tallaght’s very own Gaelscoil na Giúise representing Ireland among over 130 schools participating in the Tangible World Cup today globally. This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when we empower young people with the tools, space, and confidence to solve problems together, regardless of their location. It’s not just about coding skills, it’s about breaking down barriers, building connections, and inspiring the next generation to think big!”

For the learners in Tallaght, the event is about more than just a competition, it is a chance to connect with peers across the globe, experience the excitement of a live international challenge, and develop skills that will help address both the digital divide and the social divide.

Ellie Nì Mhaonaigh, aged 12, a participant from Gaelscoil na Giúise said: “The coding is like a puzzle, and I love working with my friends as a team to solve the different levels. It was also cool to see schools from other countries.”

The Tangible World Cup is supported as a part of Amazon’s global investment in STEM education and community development, ensuring that students everywhere – from rural villages to major cities – have the opportunity to build skills needed for the future.

For more information:
Website: https://aws.amazon.com/about-aws/global-infrastructure/community-engagement/

‘Button by Neatebox’ touchless pedestrian crossing control system now on trial in Clondalkin and Tallaght

South Dublin County Council, Roads Department has installed the ‘Button by Neatebox’ touchless pedestrian crossing control system in two locations within the County.

With Button you can use your mobile phone to virtually ‘press’ the pedestrian crossing button. It can be used to operate pedestrian crossings safely and confidently.

This free App is available on iOS or Android and allows you to focus on your surroundings without having to stretch or search for the button.

This seems like a good idea for the disabled however the public seem to think different saying it is a waste of money, silly to see such a thing being on your phone at pedestrian crossings and no use to the visually impaired. We already have smarter options available in the city and if the button is too high for disabled people should it not be lowered or use the other technology we already have instead that has motion sensors etc.. Then you have of course the data collection argument, what do you think of this idea?

Benefits of Button include:

  • Reduce anxiety: With the automatic button push, you do not have to worry about locating the manual button or getting near to it. It is a touchless system which is an additional benefit to public health and safety.
  • Automatic push enabled: You can use the auto push facility which will enable you to activate a button push while leaving your device in your pocket.
  • More time to cross: You can start to cross from the edge of the pavement being perfectly aligned for a safe crossing. This will give you effectively more time to cross.
  • Data-driven decisions: The system collects usage data with every interaction which can be used for the provision of more efficient traffic management and infrastructure planning.

The Button system can be found at:

Belgard Square North, Tallaght – near the entrance to Tallaght hospital. GPS 53.289225 -6.374975

Ninth Lock Road, Clondalkin – at the post office. GPS 53.324402 -6.395448