The Information Technology Syllabus for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) reflects
the belief that Information Technology is essential to the economic and social development of the region.
The widespread use of Information Technology, the tools and techniques for inputting, processing, storing,
outputting, transmitting and receiving information, which was made possible because of improvements in
computer and telecommunications technology, has significantly changed society. A large proportion of
business transactions is now performed over computer networks. The Internet and multimedia computers have
had a significant impact on the ways in which people work, learn, communicate, conduct business, and on the ways they
seek entertainment. The increased integration of computer and telecommunications technology has led to an increased
globalisation of the world economy. Moreover, as the world becomes familiar with the potential of Information
Technology, people are beginning to realise that many problems and situations which were hitherto thought
of as primarily involving physical activities, in fact rely for their solution on the ready availability of relevant
information.
In order for the Caribbean to participate in and contribute to this new world, it is essential that Caribbean
people become familiar with this technology. This not only implies that we must know how to use the
technology from a purely technical point of view; but also means that we must be conscious of the impact of
Information Technology. In particular, we must be made aware that the appropriate use of Information
Technology can help solve the problems that we are facing in their daily lives, whether they be of an
economic, social or personal nature, and that Information Technology provides opportunities for economic
development, as well as for further integration, of the region. However, the increased use of Information
Technology also raises a number of ethical, legal and political issues, ranging from questions concerning
privacy of information about individuals, to intellectual property rights.
The introduction of Information Technology without careful consideration often worsens a problem, rather
than solves it. Any decision to turn to Information Technology must, therefore, be preceded by a critical
analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed solution. In addition, Information Technology has
made access to information and misinformation far easier. It is, therefore, crucial that anyone, before using
any information, first critically evaluate its reliability.
- Teacher: Jay Whyte