Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I have no plans to introduce computer science as a curriculum subject. The focus in schools is on using information and communications technology, ICT, as a tool in learning, guided by the ICT curriculum framework developed by the NCCA. This is supported by digital content on the scoilnet website, by professional development programmes for teachers and by investment in ICT infrastructure. All post-primary schools will be connected to a 100 mbps broadband service by the end of 2014. This will provide for improved integration of ICT in learning.

The forthcoming reforms in junior cycle will allow for the introduction of school-developed short courses of 100 hours duration as an option. This will provide further opportunities for schools to progress the provision of courses in computer science. In addition, ICT will be an area of essential learning which all students will be required to experience, and managing information and thinking will be embedded in subjects as a core skill. There is also a transition year option in respect of having fun with computer programming and games and, under the ICT action plan, this is being expanded nationally.

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