In 2000, the Government of The Bahamas launched the BEST Computerization for Primary Schools Project which had as its goals to "allow for an interactive, dynamic, learning environment, allow teachers greater access to resources and would also allow students and teachers in The Bahamas to be linked with counterparts throughout the world" . It was expected that this would be made possible through an integrated system for School Administration and curriculum support and/or development. More importantly, given the archipelagic nature of The Bahamas, it was anticipated that this Project would bring greater parity to the teaching/learning process from Grand Cay, Abaco in the north to Inagua in the south.
The importance of the BEST Computerization Project for Primary Schools to the development of education in The Bahamas has increased as The Government proceeds with a subsequent IDB Project "Education for Training and Competitiveness", The Bahamas Learning Channel, a crucial programme for Distance Education, Bahamas Government On- Line and other vital Information and Communications Technology (ICT) programmes. All of these programmes seek to ensure that students, teachers and the general populace of The Bahamas are equipped with the necessary skills to position The Bahamas in a globalized world.
Mandate of Section/Unit
1) To ensure that all primary schools in The Bahamas have computers in the classrooms (grades 4-6) and ensure that all schools have a management system.
2) To ensure that both students and staff have access to the Internet.
3) To technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards.
4) To train teachers in the use of the administrative, Language Arts and Mathematics software, the Internet and the administrative software
5) To train teachers to integrate the software into their teaching
Purpose of Section/Unit
1) Demonstrate continual growth in technology knowledge and skills to stay abreast of current and emerging technologies.
2) Design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology- enhanced instructional strategies to support the diverse needs of learners.
3) Plan for the management of technology resources within the context of learning activities.
4) Facilitate technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards.
5) Train teachers in basic computer skills
