ICT capability involves information gathering, presentation and technical processing skills, underpinned by understanding of key concepts related to the nature of information and of technology. It includes, but is much broader than, a set of technical competences in common software applications.
The aim is to ensure that by the end of Key Stage 3, all pupils can use ICT securely, creatively and independently, are confident enough to keep their skills up to date, and are able to generalise from their ICT experiences. The knowledge, skills and understanding that they need in the subject are closely intertwined and may be summed up as follows.
- Knowledge: Pupils need some knowledge of the technology; for example, that a computer requires different software to control peripherals such as printers or scanners, or that internet search engines use different methods to find information, which affects results from a search. They also need to know the technical terms associated with the ICT facilities that they use.
- Skills: To handle information efficiently, pupils need both technical skills in using ICT facilities, such as how to use a particular software package to reorganise information for a new purpose, and information skills, such as skimming and sifting. They also need interpersonal skills; for example, in cooperating with others, both face to face and remotely, in an ICT-based task.
- Understanding: Pupils need to understand the concepts that underpin effective use of ICT; for example, when and when not to use ICT for a given purpose. They should appreciate how their use of ICT or of an ICT product might be improved, for example to make it more efficient, versatile, interesting or fit for purpose. Understanding helps pupils to become reflective and responsible users of ICT, with an awareness of the impact of ICT on daily life and society.
