Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

British School of Chicago has a purpose furnished computer lab with 20 networked computers running off a server. Each class also has its own computer with appropriate support hardware. We are constantly developing software and hardware with the aim that children will always have access to the most up to date resources possible. All children (3-18years old) have access to computers; laser printers; a scanner; the Internet (with appropriate security) and E-mail. Photocopiers and fax machines can also be accessed.

What do we teach in ICT?

For information about how ICT is taught to 5-10 year olds, please see the link below to the International Primary Curriculum: Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

During Key Stage Three (12-14 years old) pupils become increasingly independent users of ICT tools and information sources. Within ICT there are opportunities for pupils to find things out, develop ideas, make things happen and exchange information. They develop a better understanding of how ICT can help their work in other subjects and they extend their ability to judge when and how to use ICT. The pupils also develop a greater understanding of where ICT has limitations and they can evaluate the quality and reliability of the information they have accessed. During Key Stage Three pupils carry out a range of increasingly complex tasks and become more focused, efficient and rigorous in their use of ICT.

How do we teach ICT?

All children have a minimum of one hour a week in the computer lab. Older children may complete this in one sitting while younger ones will work in three shorter sessions. ICT will be taught as a discrete lesson.

As well as the set lessons with ICT as the focus, the children use computers to assist their learning in other subjects. Using the World Wide Web or CD-Roms to research topics, scanning a picture to compliment typed work are possible examples. The additional computers in each classroom are used here.

How do we measure children's progress in ICT?

Lessons in ICT always build on previous experience; teachers develop understanding and deal with misconception on a lesson-by-lesson basis. They will constantly monitor children's development for future input. The practical side of this is interpreting children's questions, studying their work to see who is ready to move on and to where. At the end of each topic teachers make a more formal assessment of the child's progress, a record is kept of this. At the end of each term a written report highlights the strengths of children and areas that are in need of development. Parent-Teacher conferences give the opportunity to further inform on children's individual progress.