Schools' IT needs review

Nearly nine out of 10 (85 per cent) school IT staff and head teachers think the quality of education will fall if schools do not provide adequate technology for students.

And almost two-thirds (61 per cent) of teachers feel that the government’s educational IT policy needs a wholesale review, says a survey.

"IT is such a central part of teaching that schools which do not have access to the latest technologies risk creating a sub-standard learning environment," said a spokeswoman for ZyXEL Communications, which conducted the research.

The government has already committed to an initiative which aims to give all pupils and parents broadband access by 2010.

But resources are being stretched, according to ZyXEL Communications.

"Schools are torn between complying with government legislation, and this must be matched with improving the infrastructure at the campus level,” said the spokeswoman.

See also:

A laptop for every child

Nicholas Negroponte explains why his One Laptop per Child project will help to educate those who need it most  22 Nov 2007

London launches public services network

Secure connections will support 16 co-operating boroughs  26 Sep 2007

BT provides network for East Sussex schools

Deal will pave the way for voice over IP and videoconferencing  31 Aug 2007

A-level debate still a prickly subject

Does the IT sector beat itself up unecessarily about the growing lack of enthusiasm for IT study in schools?  23 Aug 2007

Decline in IT students threatens UK success

2007 A-level results show a fall in students choosing computer science  23 Aug 2007

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