Information technology in the National Curriculum: a view from Scotland

Abstract This paper examines the proposals for Information Technology (IT) in current curriculum developments in England and Wales and in Scotland. It points out significant differences between the pattern of curriculum developments in these two parts of the United Kingdom, noting in particular, that developments under the heading of The National Curriculum do not apply in Scotland. Nevertheless, IT developments in Scotland have many similarities to those in the rest of the UK and it is from this shared experience that a view is offered as to whether the proposals under The National Curriculum will allow IT to reach its full potential to shape the curriculum and to improve learning and teaching styles. Among the issues considered are the interplay between IT and the curriculum, the impact of IT on learning and teaching and the fundamental question as to whether the system—pupils, teachers, staff management and staff development arrangements—are likely to be able to respond to the National Curriculum proposals.