Coventry (UK), May 2009 - Effective use of technology complements traditional core skills such as reading and writing, and it also boosts children's interest in what they are learning. These are among the important results of Sir Jim Rose's report "The Independent Review of the Primary Curriculum".
In response to the publication, Stephen Crowne, Chief Executive of Becta, the British government agency for technology in learning, says: "Becta welcomes the Rose Review and the emphasis it puts on technology in our schools. We absolutely believe that technology should be built into all subjects to support teaching and enhance children's development through school."
"Without an appropriate emphasis on technology from an early age, there is the risk of a digital underclass developing, lacking opportunities for wide-ranging use of technology, which puts them at a disadvantage in a world where ICT surrounds us."
"The traditional core skills of reading and writing must always remain at the heart of primary teaching, but we must also recognise that there is a wealth of technology available today which, when used effectively and imaginatively, can complement the traditional skills and aid teaching. It can bring lessons to life, make learning more enjoyable, and can ultimately help children achieve more."
"There is no substitute for good teaching, but technology is a vital tool that can develop knowledge and understanding and provide children with real skills for their future education. We want to see all young people leave primary school knowing how to put technology to best use in a way that enhances and advances their learning through secondary education and beyond."
