Computer-assisted learning

Press, 28 August 1982, Page 24

Computer-assisted learning

PA Wellington The development of com-puter-assisted ■ learning in schools should be fully funded by the Government, said two Labour members of Parliament, Mr C R. Marshall (Wanganui) and Dr M. J. Cullen (St Kilda). Urgent action was needed to deal with “the current mess with respect to school computer systems,” they said. In July, 1980, the Minister of Education, Mr Wellington, had taken the initiative to proceed with the Poly concept developed by Wellington Polytechnic, they said.

“For the next year he gave the impression that he was I giving full backing to Poly as i the system to be introduced i in the great majority of New : . Zealand, schools. He also i gave , the impression that funds would be provided for i that purpose.” However, this year Mr Wellington had allowed “the ’ American Apple company to • carry out a pre-emptive strike against Polycorp,” they said. “A potential major New Zealand new technology industry which has so far been supported by substantial public funds is now threatened with destruction.”'

Hundreds of schools had been enticed by low prices into buying dumped Apple computers, Mr Marshall and Dr Cullens said, “only to find themselves faced with paying an anti-dumping duty out of their own funds.” The schools concerned should not be made liable for the dumping duty,'they said, as it was not their fault or responsibility that the present situation had arisen. “Our information is that, about $2 million of public funds have been invested in the Poly 1 development. Delays and Ministerial incompetence mean that the great bulk of that investment has

been put in jeopardy. “Clearly this is a situation which warrants an inquiry by the Auditor-General,” they said. “The Government should make it clear that the State will provide the necessary funding so that the development of compiler-assisted learning does not become a function of the wealth of a particular school. “If it is intended to proceed with the development of Poly I as the main system for school use, that should be made clear and the necessary commitment made to its development and marketing.” :