§ The Earl of Northeskasked Her Majesty's Government:
What importance they attach to the recent report from the Alliance for Childhood suggesting that computers in primary schools do more harm than good. [HL3908]
§ Baroness BlackstoneIt is important that we draw the right conclusions for public policy in this country, especially as the Alliance for Childhood's research was conducted in the USA. This is why the department is investing in a programme of research looking at the impact of Information and Communications Technology on learning, teaching and institutional effectiveness.
The Government believe that computers are a valuable and important addition to the resources available in primary schools. They are not a substitute for effective teaching of the basics, which is why we have introduced the daily literacy and numeracy lesson. But, effectively used, they can enhance teaching and learning. It is also essential that young people start to learn about ICT from an early age, as they are increasingly such an important part of everyday life. That is why we have invested in ICT as well as providing considerably improved resources for leaching, books and school buildings.