Sharing expertise across departments is a growing development in Fife schools.

It was felt that there was a gap in the knowledge and understanding of both myself and the pupils regarding the use of ICT. We had a lack of skills relating to real world ICT as opposed to using propriety packages. I felt that to use ICT to its utmost potential in the curriculum the pupils and I needed help from the Computing Department.

To begin with, the computing teacher and I met to discuss current curricular opportunities for ICT to be used in conjunction with the other aspects of the curriculum. Between us, we set up informal timetabled classes which formed the basic foundations for a curriculum upon which to build. After discussions with management it was decided to incorporate it officially into the timetable.

They have gained a level of assumed knowledge which has given them the confidence to work on a computer without relying on as much teacher input therefore giving them a greater feeling of ownership and accomplishment. The pupils are now eager to use the computer in all aspects of their work and especially enjoy carrying out their own research and presenting their findings.

Timetabled classes have been set up for the Department of Special Education where before there weren't any present. Pupils have gained new knowledge and skills and are now able to be accredited the National Qualifications. Teachers are now able to confidently use a wider variety of strategies to aid in teaching the curriculum and know that they have the ICT lessons as a means of support for both themselves and the pupils.

At the start of the project, we were confined to the use of some quite "elderly" Apple Mac equipment. This restricted us somewhat, in the software that we were able to use. With the introduction of the PC machines, and the whole school network, we were able to implement a much broader range of software solutions. Applications that have been used include:-
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), Microsoft Publisher, Claris Works (Database, Drawing, Painting), Microsoft Internet Explorer, Microsoft PowerPoint, Novell GroupWise, IBM WorldBook Encyclopaedia and Adobe PhotoDeluxe

Perhaps the most important hardware and software resource is the whole school network connection to the Internet. By implementing an Internet familiarity course, pupils are now able to confidently search the web for materials, viewing websites too numerous to mention. An Internet connection is essential for keeping the classroom materials "fresh" and up-to-date.
For the provision of Access 2 and Access 3 ICT courses, the hardware/software requirements are quite simple. Each pupil needs to have access to the following:-

· A computer with the ability to run up to date Word Processing, Spreadsheet, Database, Graphics and Multimedia software.
· An ink jet or laser printer.

However, in order to "flesh out" the courses (and of course make them more interesting and relevant), you would need:-

· Up to date PC/Mac computer running Microsoft Office
· Laser Printer for text, Colour Inkjet Printer for Graphics
· Flatbed Scanner, Digital Camera
· Full Internet Access, E-mail software
· Access to a selection of Multimedia software