The Computers for Pupils (CfP) initiative involves the provision of new resources (in the form of computer hardware, software and support) in areas where such resources have generally previously been unavailable. The intention is that additional government resources, delivered through schools and local authorities in the form of computers loaned to pupils, will help to reduce the "digital divide" and help to improve educational outcomes.
By putting ICT into the homes of some of the most disadvantaged secondary pupils in the most deprived areas, the Computers for Pupils initiative will help to: - give these pupils the same opportunities as their peers
- provide conditions that can contribute to raising educational achievement and narrowing the attainment gap
- support personalised learning by providing access to ICT whenever or wherever [it] is most appropriate for learning.
The initiative is a bold attempt to raise attainment, to contribute to "inclusion" and to develop the skills of young people who are in difficult social and economic circumstances. If it is successful, then the life chances and quality of life of many young people, including experience of the benefits of engagement with information and communication technology (ICT), are likely to be significantly improved. Early experiences of home ICT use may have long-lasting benefits for pupils and their families, and teachers will have extra flexibility in terms of setting work and a better motivated set of pupils. |
