While primary schools sometimes have students work with computers and other pieces of technology, government education advisers such as Sir Jim Rose argue that schools should teach students how to use computers as early as possible. The world is undergoing a technological revolution, and some argue that teaching technology to younger students will give them a solid foundation for technological success in the future. Others argue that a focus on technology will take time away from the basics and will lower academic success for students.
The European Commission, Directorate General Education and Culture conducted a study of 30 countries between 2008 and 2009 on the effects of information technology in primary schools. They consistently found that students who used technology had greater creativity, mastery of skill areas and student motivation. Over time, the teachers developed a greater mastery of the technology. Teachers also had more flexibility when assessing students and could give students more individualized assessments. The research was conducted across various countries with different economies. However, the children in all of these countries had increasing access to technology.
As of 2009, schools in Great Britain began teaching students under the age of 11 how to use Twitter, webcams, blogs and podcasts. Plans include demonstrations of Wikipedia, online dictionaries and spell-checkers. In math class, students are to learn how to use spreadsheets to practice budgeting and money managing.
Students in primary schools are vulnerable to cyber-bullying, especially because they do not always have the emotional maturity of older students to handle issues such as online harassment. Also, putting students in primary school online can make them vulnerable to online sexual predators.
When primary schools incorporate technology into the classroom, educators must determine the standards by which they assess the students. Educators can assess students based on the students' idea generation, use of models and simulations, ability to communicate and collaborate, the students' ability to organize and analyze information and the students' critical analysis of online sources. Teachers can assess critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making as shown through the use of technology. Educators can also focus on ethical considerations such as the safe and legal use of technology. For example, students should learn at an early age to not download pirated media. Educators can also assess students on how they master technology, apply technology principles to new technology and troubleshoot technological problems.