UCAC points to urgent ICT training needs

The Chief Inspector for Education and Training in Wales draws attention in his report to deficiencies in the way in which ICT is delivered in both the primary and secondary sectors. 

 

“In a majority of [primary] schools, there are important shortcomings in standards in ICT. Although most pupils use ICT appropriately for word processing, research and presentations, they do not develop their skills well enough in other elements of ICT... across the curriculum. Standards in ICT are good or better in only a minority of schools.”  (p.41) 

 

“...in most [secondary] schools, pupils do not have enough opportunities to develop their ICT skills in subjects across the curriculum. Pupils tend to use low-level skills, such as word processing or producing simple slide presentations.” (p.50) 

 

 Despite the fact that:

“Most pupils are enthusiastic users of ICT and generally learn how to use unfamiliar software quickly.” (p.50)

From September this year, a Digital Competence Framework will be rolled out in schools across Wales. It will be a cross-curricular framework, on the same model as the Literacy and Numeracy Frameworks that have already come in to force. It will mean that every teacher, in every subject will need to consider incorporating digital skills into lessons for every age group.

 

Elaine Edwards, UCAC’s General Secretary said “The Chief Inspector has emphasized the importance of skills that will enable young people to access, manage, and create the digital world of today and tomorrow, confidently and independently. UCAC agrees wholeheartedly with that.

 

“However, he also draws attention to the shortcomings in the current provision – not to mention the higher demands on teachers that will naturally arise from the introduction of the Digital Competence Framework from September onwards. 

 

“There is a distinct lack of confidence within the profession in relation to digital competency, mainly as a result of a lack of training. Consequently, there is a high level of nervousness and ignorance surrounding the introduction of the Digital Competence Framework.

 

“The Chief Inspector’s report points to the need for thorough and timely training for teachers in this crucial area. UCAC calls on the Welsh Government to make that commitment to teachers across Wales as soon as possible.”

 

For futher information please contact Rebecca Williams on 01970 639 950 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.