All Member States are promoting the connection of schools to the Internet. But connecting schools to the Internet is not enough. Pupils need to have easy access to computers combined with ease of use, both as regards off-line computing and use of the Internet. At the same time, pupils need guidance and support from their teachers in using these tools. Easy access to computers depends on a sufficiently high ratio of computers to pupils.
Ease of use depends on the age of computers and the technology used to connect to the Internet.
It is important to avoid discrepancies between schools. Therefore the Commission proposes to set a ratio of computers per 100 pupils linked to the age of computers and applied to all schools, and the quality of contents and services available. The Commission proposes that training for all teachers should be completed by 2002. The European Council should agree to ensure convenient access to Internet for all schools by 2001 by providing at least one internet enabled PC for 10 pupils, while moving towards convenience in use by installing high speed access in 10 percent of schools by end 2001. In response to the rapid dissemination of digital technologies and the Internet into all human activities, to support the acquisition by all pupils of the essential digital skills they need to live and work in the information society.