A UNIVERSITY lecturer has called on policy-makers to develop a clear strategy for computing in schools.
Dr Tom Crick said there appeared to be a “fundamental misunderstanding” about where computing sits within the Welsh Government’s science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) portfolio.
Dr Crick, a computer science expert from the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff (Uwic) made the assessment at a conference in Cardiff Bay.
He said: “The strategic importance of the provision of Stem subjects, as well as their contribution to the Welsh and wider UK economy, has been frequently discussed, but there appears to be a fundamental misunderstanding with where computing sits within the Stem portfolio.
“It should be regarded as the quintessential Stem subject, involving scientific enquiry, engineering design and mathematical foundations, as well as embodying deeper computational thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills.”
Dr Crick also spoke about the Welsh Government’s framework for Delivering a Digital Wales, which reflects the importance digital technologies now play in our lives.
“Being able to innovate with technology will be a crucial part of the future economic strength of Wales,” he said.
“And therein lies the importance and relevance of computing education. It is imperative that there is a clear strategy for computing in Wales that distinguishes it from ‘digital literacy’, recognising it as a core discipline that underpins modern scientific research.
“Ultimately, every school- leaver should have a basic understanding of computing to enable them to play an active role in the digital world that surrounds them and not just be passive consumers of technology.”
The annual Science and the Assembly conference was held in the Senedd and Pierhead Building on Tuesday.
Organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry, it is designed to develop closer links between the scientific community in Wales, the National Assembly for Wales and the Welsh Government.
Dr Crick was one of six speakers from across academia and industry, which included chief scientific adviser, Professor John Harries.
As the leader of Computing at School in Wales, Dr Crick will host another one-day conference at Swansea University on July 1. The event will provide a forum to discuss computing education in Wales.