The giants of the computing industry are backing the government in their reboot of the current Information and Communications Technology syllabus.

When the new curriculum is introduced in September young students from the ages of 11 will be taught how to write basic 2D computer animations, adolescents will learn how to build apps for tablets and smart phones and young adults will be seen writing code. These are intended to replace classes of Microsoft Word and Excel, which many argue are dull and outdated, whereas the new syllabus will give children and teenagers the enthusiasm and drive needed to pursue a career in ICT. However, there is some concern amongst educators as there are not currently enough qualified computer-science teachers who possess the necessary knowledge to teach these classes.

The new curriculum will be boosted by the anticipated release of iBooks 2, which introduces new interactive textbooks that can be updated, will include interactive features in which teachers can make notes for the students, and a study card feature that will make those long revision sessions easier on the eyes. iBooks have many advantages over traditional textbooks: not only are they affordable, lighter and contained all in one place, they give the user the option to search for specific material.

Surrounding school children with technology that is appealing offers endless possibilities and should motivate more to choose a future in IT. This will give all involved a greater understanding of the subject and its place in the modern world.

(Source: Cnet, Cnet)

Epicentre Says: “It’s great to know that the often dreary classes of the past, with a curriculum that felt ten years or more out of date, will be replaced with something which better reflects modern digital media and today’s IT industry. Plus, ICT teaches good multitasking skills alongside mathematics, and will educate children and adults alike in thinking forwards. We hope to see many more technically-minded computer users in the future who are interested in more than just social networking.”