Introduction of Computers in Primary Schools in Norway – From Experiments to Implementation

Abstract : The article presents the introduction of computers in Norway from the mid-eighties to the beginning of the nineties. In 1984 the first IT initiative on IT in education passed Parliament; White Paper no 39 (1983/84) included an action program run by a ministerial task force, an experimental activity within selected areas and schools. This White Paper was followed by a number of initiatives and more White Papers indicating a high priority and profile for IT in national policy. The experimental programs were closed according to a shift of direction presented in White Paper 24, closing down the task force and IT integrated in the ordinary administrative bodies and curricular programs. There were the years of experiments and policy developments when ICT in schools moved from the era and field of enthusiasts to implementation in regular programs and curriculum. The Norwegian Pedagogical Computer Society was founded in 1987 after a year of preparatory work.