A DIGITAL learning strategy for Wee County children will seek to ensure consistency and benefit for all, receiving praise from councillors last week.

A key part of Clackmannanshire Council's plans will be improving access for those who cannot otherwise afford to purchase digital tools like laptops and tablets.

Documents tabled at last Thursday's, October 3, People Committee acknowledged that digital technology is "transforming the way that we live our lives, impacting on learning and future careers of all our children and young people".

Indeed, during one of his questions, Councillor Kenny Earle highlighted that much of children's homework now comes in a digital form and wondered what is being done to ensure access for those who do not own devices in the household.

Officers explained part of the plans is to make tablets and laptops available on loan from schools for pupils and families.

The Labour representative then highlighted such tools are only any good if students can access the internet, in the case of a tablet this is only possible through a wireless network or Wi-Fi.

Council staff responded to say schools, where such networks exist, will allow time for the web to be accessed after teaching.

As part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Deal, there are aspirations to develop digital hubs for people along with and skills and inclusion programme, further supporting the strategy which will run up to 2022.

Improving the skills and raising the confidence of educators themselves also forms a part of the plans to make sure they can use technology appropriately and effectively.

Cllr Helen Lewis questioned how a balance can be struck between the use of technology and the need to learn to read and write traditionally.

Officers from the education department explained they would like to see more digital technology used in classrooms, but there is a need to make sure this does not go too far.

Ultimately, they said it will be "down to the professionalism of teachers".

One explained there was scope to "take more advantage" of digital learning tools, but teachers are "mindful" of a need for balance.

Committee chair Cllr Graham Lindsay agreed that finding that balance will be key in the successful implementation of the strategy, which also seeks to ensure digital technology is evident in all areas of curriculum design, delivery and assessment.

Proposing the paper, Cllr Donald Balsillie, whom the chair said put a lot of work into the development of the strategy, highlighted this was a complex and fast changing area.

And said: "I think we are heading in the right direction."

Speaking with "first-hand knowledge", Cllr Jane McTaggart said digital learning tools can be especially vital for certain children with additional support needs, who may engage better with technology.

The strategy received the nod from all corners of the chamber with staff thanked for the "hard work" put in.