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Computer studies for primary students
Following is a question by the Hon Eric Li Ka-cheung and a written reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Joseph W P Wong, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council whether computer studies is one of the subjects in the curriculum of primary schools in the territory; if so, whether it is a compulsory subject; if not, whether the Education Department will introduce computer studies into the curriculum of primary schools and make it a compulsory subject?
Reply:
Mr President,
Government is fully aware of the importance of promoting information technology in schools. Since the introduction of the Computer Studies Scheme in the secondary sector in 1982, a full range of computer subjects is being offered in secondary schools; and Government provides support in the form of computer equipment and software, in-service teacher training and curriculum grants to schools.
The subject of Computer Studies is not included in the current primary curriculum. This is because the study of the subject requires certain pre-requisites, such as a reasonable level of mathematical concepts and command of English. Hence, we consider the present arrangement of introducing computer studies at Secondary One level and above appropriate.
However, it should be noted that an increasing number of schools have included computer classes as part of their extra-curricular activities. Government welcomes this initiative as it can expose students to computer technology at an early stage and better prepare them for the study of the subject at secondary level.
End