Digital technology curriculum essential

Digital technology curriculum essential, computer science next step

Integrating digital technology right across the curriculum from Y1-13 is a significant step for New Zealanders. The announcement on increasing digital technology education today is welcomed. The next steps in this programme will be critical to making it worthwhile says the Royal Society of New Zealand.

“Understanding how and when to use information and communication tools is essential to ensure people do not become isolated from their communities, or miss out on opportunities because they lack confidence in digital technology. Therefore, providing digital technology education throughout the curriculum is essential,” says Dr Andrew Cleland, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of New Zealand.

“The commitment to Y1-13 is supported, as is the plan to develop and implement Y1-10 courses by 2018. But it is also vital that those students (around 10%) who will undertake computer programming in the early stages of their working life get opportunities to study aspects of computer science in senior secondary school, and have that recognised as a mainstream subject. That will aid their transition to relevant tertiary study. Investment in computer science education will contribute significantly to our economic development in the future.

“This announcement by the Ministry of Education is a necessary first step towards achieving these outcomes. As the Ministry notes, the transition will require investment in teacher professional development, and good educational materials,” says Dr Cleland.

Technology is one of the three main portfolios for the Royal Society of New Zealand’s mandate, which covers science, technology and the humanities.

ENDS

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