Mr. Pádraig Mac Fhlannchadha:

All planned curriculum developments will reflect the need to promote the use of ICT in teaching and learning. For example, a new integrated language curriculum is being prepared. It is expected that the section of that curriculum that relates to infants up to second class will be available for use in schools from 2014. That will also include a focus on the development of digital literacy skills.

As Ms O'Mahony pointed out, junior cycle reform will also reflect the need to ensure that there is development of desired ICT skills. Each of the key skills that underpins all the subject areas for the new junior cycle has a connection with digital literacy, for example, using digital technology to communicate and working with others through digital technology. In addition to the short course on coding and programming referred to by Ms O'Mahony, there will also be a short course in the area of digital literacy which will include topics such as information literacy, personal safety online, digital story telling and online privacy. This will continue.

The sciences at senior cycle are being reviewed. The provision of those syllabi at senior cycle will also take account of the need to provide for the development of ICT skills and the inclusion of ICT in teaching and learning.