In this age where technology has become the talk of the century, one cannot underestimate the importance of using and getting abreast with Information Technology in our basic schools. However, is Information Technology (IT) being given the necessary attention it requires?
The implementation of the new curriculum from National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) in 2019 was a laudable initiative and a step in the right direction. Education is changing, and hence there was a need to create new curriculum to suit the needs of the current society.
Information Technology in the new Standard Curriculum was entitled “Computing“. This was to give it a new approach to teaching and learning at the Basic level.
However, it is unfortunate that the teaching and learning of Computing as a stand-alone subject in the new Standard-based Curriculum starts from Basic 4!
In Basic One to Basic Three, the concept of Technology in communication is introduced to pupils in the third term of the academic year and is treated for four weeks only. Also, from Basic four to Basic Six, the Computing as a subject is given only 2 periods (1 hour) to be treated each week. Clearly, this is not enough.
As the saying goes, “Train up a child a way he should go, and he’ll never depart from it.” The concept of Information Technology is very broad and essential for learners to be abreast it. For this to be possible, learners need to be exposed to the technological world as soon as possible.
BECE 2019 Report on ICT
The Chief Examiner’s Report from WAEC on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) gives us a glimpse of the need for Information Technology to be given much attention.
The report made mention of some challenges pupils had during the examination. The report stressed that, most pupils who sat for the BECE 2019 were unable to assign the parts of the computer correctly. Also, some pupils were unable to write ICT terms and keys correctly.
The report later suggested that, the practical aspects of Information Technology should be taken seriously and learners must practice adequately.
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ICT is the Future
Evidently, Information Technology is not being given the necessary attention it needs in our Basic Schools. This is goin to be a setback for our learners if this not rectified in the near future.
There is the need to necessitate the teaching and learning of Information Technology right from Basic one and also practicalize the teaching and learning of Computing in the Basic schools.
Whether we like it or not, Technology has come to stay and the earlier we inculcate its importance and learning to our children, the better! This will ensure that our foundation to be technological independent as a nation will be secured.
