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NewsReduction of Teacher Confidence in using ICTThe British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA) has released its annual research into the opinions and trends of ‘ICT in UK State Schools’. Desire for more ICT in schools, yet spending declines BESA’s research is based on a survey of ICT co-ordinators and heads of IT from 770 primary and 572 secondary schools from across the UK, conducted in June 2009. Ray Barker, director of BESA explains: “The BESA ICT in UK State Schools research indicates that after year-on-year increases in ICT budgets since 2001, we are now naturally experiencing a reduction in estimated ICT allocations from school budgets. This is not surprising as schools are under many financial pressures. Education funding has not been reduced and schools know that they have necessary funds; however during uncertain times, and with pressures to change upon them, schools appear to be treating ICT budgets with caution.’ Teacher confidence and training Ray Barker adds: “Another issue the BESA research identified was the reduction of teacher confidence in using ICT. There was a 10 per cent drop in confidence and competence using ICT in the curriculum from 2007 in primary schools, and an eight per cent reduction in secondary schools.” The research also found that 59 per cent of primary teachers will receive ICT training in 2009, compared to 67 per cent who expected training in 2008. 55 per cent of secondary teachers will receive training in 2009, compared to 72 per cent in 2007. Ray Barker comments: “Whether the reduction in teacher training has led to a lack of teacher confidence in using ICT, or if it is the result of a greater variety of ICT being used in today’s classrooms is debatable. Teachers are using technology more so will be finding themselves lacking in confidence in many areas, such as the use of learning platforms, as Government pushes them to meet exacting targets.” See BESA press release |
