1.2 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)
  1.2.1 Common/overarching requirements for key stages 1- 4
 

Information Technology (IT) capability is characterised by an ability to use effectively IT tools and information sources to analyse, process and present information, and to model, measure and control external events. This involves:

  • using information sources and IT tools to solve problems;
  • using IT tools and information sources, such as computer systems and software
    packages, to support learning in a variety of contexts;
  • understanding the implications of IT for working life and society.

it is a National Curriculum requirement that: Pupils should be given opportunities, where appropriate, to develop and apply their IT capability in their study of National Curriculum subjects

(source: IT statements, p.1) .

  1.2.2 Specific programmes of study

At key stage 3 (ages 11-14), pupils are required to:

  • consider the limitations of IT tools and information sources, and of the results they provide, and compare their effectiveness and efficiency with other methods of working;
  • discuss some of the social, economic, ethical and moral issues raised by IT.

At key stage 3 (ages 11-14), pupils are required to:

  • consider the limitations of IT tools and information sources, and of the results they provide, and compare their effectiveness and efficiency with other methods of working;
  • discuss some of the social, economic, ethical and moral issues raised by IT.

At the next stage (KS4 or 14-16 years) they are expected to:

  • recognise the impact of new technologies on methods of working in the outside world, and on social, economic, ethical and moral issues;
  • increase their understanding of the social, ethical, moral and economic impact of technology on their lives;

The website begins to present new technology developments in their historical context and could therefore form the basis of further study of the Ôethical and moral issuesÕ involved in the use of new technologies (especially ICT) and specifically the use of the Internet itself.

(source: IT statements, p.4) .

 

One feature of the National Curriculum is the explicit statement of the ÔAttainment TargetsÕ at different levels which pupils can reach. In the IT section we have, for example:

Level 3
They describe their use of IT and its use in the outside world.
Level 6
They discuss the wider impact of IT on society.
Level 7
They consider the limitations of IT tools and information sources, and of the results they produce. Level 8 They discuss in an informed way, the social, economic, ethical and moral issues raised by IT.

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