11 April 2005
The newly released Dell ICT in Education Survey has identified schools could be better utilised to help bridge the digital divide.
According to the survey nearly every school (99 per cent) has PCs and printers and three quarters have broadband access, yet only half (54 per cent) provide after school access to computers for pupils.
Furthermore, just 33 per cent make technology resources available to the local community in the form of community classes and training.
Peter Hubbard, vice president of Dell's public sector division, said: "Whilst initiatives like the People's Network, providing internet access in public libraries, shows how widening public access works well, we believe schools could also support this work, particularly in the more rural communities.
"Access to ICT is no longer a luxury - it's a necessity for everyone. Schools, like libraries, are central to most communities and many now have very good technology resources, with average investment of over £20,000 per annum. By widening out access to these resources to pupils and the community as a whole, schools can play a vital role in breaking down the digital divide."
The survey was conducted throughout the UK in December 2004 with 428 primary and secondary schools in England, Scotland and Wales.© DeHavilland Information Services plc
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