Embrace technology, schools told

16:33 15th January 2010

Schools must put embracing technology at the top of their agenda for 21st century learning, a leading expert has been quoted as saying.

Professor Stephen Heppell has said schools should strive to break away from traditional teaching models, a news report said.

Separately, Vernon Coaker, the UK's minister for schools and families, reiterated the government's commitment to putting technology at the heart of the school curriculum.

"Teachers need access to innovative services. We must prepare pupils for the future workplace," Mr Coaker was quoted as saying by the BBC.

"Cutting edge technology is the cornerstone of our reforms," he added.

In other news, a government programme which will provide laptops to students from poor backgrounds is a "step toward bridging the digital divide", said Rhian Beynon, head of policy and campaigns at Family Action.

The scheme will provide laptops and broadband connection to 127,000 families across England.

But Ms Beynon said that she feared the initiative will not help the most disadvantaged families in the long term.

Written by Derek Oldman

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