Ivor Callely
Question:108 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education the current information technology and computer programmes in the school curriculum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10220/97]
Written Answers. - Computerisation Programme.
Primary schools draw up their own "plans of work" for the effective use of computers in the context of the overall curriculum. Information and communication technology (ICT) activities are integrated as far as possible into classroom teaching and directed towards learning support. ICT is seen in a cross-curricular context as facilitating the integrated and child-centred focus of the primary school curriculum. At present, the primary curriculum is being revised. This revision will take account of the most recent developments in the use of ICT in primary education.
Computer studies in second-level schools is included as a non-examinable subject within the junior certificate and leaving certificate curriculum and as an examinable module within the leaving certificate applied. In addition, aspects of information and communication technology are relevant to teaching and learning in a range of subjects. Schools participating in vocationally oriented senior cycle programmes are provided with grants for computer and communications equipment. The use of ICT is a central component of these programmes. Also, there is a specific incareer development provision for the enhancement of ICT skills among teachers.
I had the pleasure in recently announcing the Department of Education's major new Millennium Project, "Schools IT 2000", which involves a Government investment of £30 million over the next five years. The project will support all 4,000 schools in the State in acquiring, by the end of the millenium, information and communications technologies equipment, traning and curriculum materials and an Internet connection. Investment in equipment provision will be matched with an equal level of investment in teacher training, curriculum integration and support.