Computer literacy and the education/training interface

This paper reviews some relationships between training and formal education, and discusses ways in which education for “Computer Literacy” might provide foundations for subsequent training and retraining in the face of an increasingly automated and information-rich environment. Computer Literacy is defined in terms of learning experiences at all levels of education which contribute to general technological awareness, to familiarity with routine applications of computers and understanding of their potential for human emancipation and to practical problem-solving skills based on creative use of computers and information technology. The effects of different levels of investment available for motivated training and education are considered. Close co-operation between education and training sectors is advocated.