I.T. Policy

Information Technology 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. (National Curriculum Programmes of Study.)

Objectives

All children will be encouraged to develop positive attitudes towards Information Technology. They will be helped to develop confidence and enjoyment in, and an understanding of, the potential of Information Technology.

Through a variety of experiences we aim for each child to develop skills in the following areas:

" communicating ideas through words, pictures and sounds

" entering, storing and classifying information

" accessing and obtaining information (e.g. from a CD-ROM)

" giving signals and commands

I.T. Experiences

Children's experiences of Information Technology should incorporate:

" word processing for a variety of purposes

" data handling

" use of programmable toys and household devices such as tape recorders

" opportunities to work independently and cooperatively

" use of adventure games and simulations

" use of a CD-ROM

School Policy and the National Curriculum

The National Curriculum states that I.T. should be used to support each area of the curriculum. We aim to use Information Technology to support and enhance all areas of the curriculum.

Classroom Management

It is our aim that children should use/work on a computer at least twice in every half term. Children may be required to work individually, in pairs or in small groups according to the nature of the activity or task.

Computers should be kept clean (dust covers). They should be on a trolley or table which is the right height for children to sit at, with space to seat 2 or 3 children if required.

Assessment and Record Keeping

Records of the children's experiences, rather than achievements, will be kept. This will be in the form of a simple tick chart. Where appropriate, samples of children's work may be kept. A format may be provided for children to keep records of their own achievements.

Staffing and Resources

The coordinator and headteacher will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating IT.

This policy will be reexamined and adapted to meet changing school needs and statutory requirements.