Criteria for Good Practice in Computer and Information Technology in the Youth Training Scheme. Publication No. 3

A study examined the role of computer and information technology (CIT) instruction in the Youth Training Scheme (YTS). A number of successful local YTS training schemes and initiatives are identified and analyzed in the first part of this report. This process resulted in the formulation of specific policy recommendations that are spelled out in the second part of this report and concern the role of CIT in YTS programs and practices for conducting CIT training. It was determined that the overall purpose of CIT in the YTS should be to develop an information technology capability in each trainee. Because vocational relevance can be a powerful motivator, CIT training in YTS activities should emphasize the practical applications of information technology. The precise content and level of the CIT component of YTS should focus on trainees' prior interests, their YTS experience and its context, and the type of CIT qualifications being sought. The existing position of CIT as a component of transferable core skills should be maintained, and programs should be encouraged to develop an overall approach to CIT training that includes both off- and on-the-job training. (Appendixes include discussions of relevant activities for industries with apparently little use of CIT and development of training resources, case studies of the delivery of the CIT training, and a position paper supporting the adoption of a broad view of information technology training.) (MN)