The project involves schools having IT based technology used in the field to measure and monitor water quality. This is done by use of a palm held computer with global positioning system and electronic water testing equipment. When the palm top computers are hitched up to internet computer linked PCs in the schools, the information is automatically downloaded to a single web site of water quality and other environmental information used by scientists.This project helps school children get involved in using advanced technology for practical benefits. It builds a relationship between children, educational organisations, and scientists with responsibility for water systems. It also builds awareness, knowledge and responsibility amongst children for their environment. Achievements: The Vital Signs pilot project was set up in 2004; a partnership made up of the Loughs Agency, ICBAN, Northern Regional Fisheries Board, Monaghan County Council and schools in the Blackwater, Foyle and Melvin Catchments along with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Maine USA. This partnership worked together to develop and test Vital Signs software to monitor water quality in streams close to schools within the aforementioned catchments. A website was developed to host the data recorded during these activities and also provide education resources and information on the partners and schools involved. The website also had enhanced map functionality that enables zooming, distance calculations and database queries and manipulations and provides and excellent resource for school teaching and the wider public.Over the two year period the cross-border project over-achieved on all its targets by working in 20 schools with more than 500 children participating in the Vital Signs pilot programme. The school children used handheld computers to monitor the site, weather, water quality and stream characteristics, they also took pictures and made observations on the handheld device. These activities were closely related to the school curriculum and teaching resources were made available to teachers to support the learning in the classroom. It is really fascinating to see how quickly children learn the new technology. They love all the gadgets, they really are technology smart!, said Gretta McCarron Project Co-ordinator. The children also loved the fieldwork as many stated in their field observations this is fun. Teachers found that the children become more aware of their local environment through the programme and their observation, technical, language and numeracy skills were developed and parents were impressed as their children identify and name different plants in the hedges when they are out walking.