An examination of the implementation of ICT teaching methodologies in the 5th and 6th class primary school curriculum

The Primary School Curriculum (1999) is taught in all primary schools in Ireland. Using Information and Communication Technologies is recognised as a teaching methodology in the teacher guideline documents of the Primary School Curriculum. This case study on 20 schools in the environs of a large town in the west of Ireland, examined the implementation of ICT teaching methodologies in the primary school curriculum in 5th and 6th class. Pupil to computer ratio varied widely depending on single class settings and multi-class settings. Pupils‟ use of computers ranged from everyday to rarely. Lack of infrastructure and class size was a major factor in the lack of integration of ICT methodologies in classroom teaching. Teachers surveyed and interviewed called for professional development in this area and a clear practical ICT curriculum for primary schools. Lack of time and support were further impediments to successful ICT integration. The abolition of the ICT advisory service added additional responsibility to the schools ICT post holders and principal. Recommendations drawn from this study include an interactive e-portal in conjunction with pedagogically appropriate ICT teaching resources, in-service days for ICT and a system to maintain existing ICT infrastructure in schools.