Information and Communications Technology Policy

Purpose

This policy provides an overview of the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) within the school community and is intended to:

• recognise that constant and rapid developments in ICT result in significant changes in the way the world operates and communicates
• acknowledge that ICT can significantly enhance the learning and teaching experience
• make explicit the link between ICT infrastructure and resources and effective use of ICT to maximise learning
•  outline the procedures,  roles and responsibilities of all users of ICT

Principles

The effective use of ICT:

• is supported by programmes of learning and teaching that develop the ICT skills of all users enabling them to become successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors to society and work
• helps staff and pupils acquire and access information and consequently has an increasingly important impact on learning and teaching
• has the potential to transform patterns and modes of learning and teaching
• through non-textual approaches to presenting learning can lead to improved learner engagement and motivation
• is a direct consequence of readily available and reliable access
• requires a high level and quality of technical support to maintain the confidence of learners and teaching staff
• supports the recording and monitoring of pupil progress
• relies on a cycle of audit, planning, implementation and monitoring to support the use and acquisition of ICT hardware and software
• operates within a framework of acceptable use based on health and safety considerations and the rights and associated responsibilities of all  members of the school community
• supports administration of the school, including links with the community
• can promote environmentally friendly working practices 

Changes to ICT practice and provision will be based on well-considered rationale, involving consultation with stakeholders and monitored and evaluated for impact on the learning experience.

ICT developments operate within the constraints of available finance and are subject to priorities determined by the Scottish Executive, Scottish Borders Council and the school.