COLLOQUIUM Leadership Roles of a Pre-school Principal in the Use of Information and Communication Technology:

ABSTRACT The incorporation of information and communications technology (ICT) in education is increasingly recognised as a priority for schools in Hong Kong. Teachers are now expected to undertake formal training to ensure they are proficient in the use of ICT and are able to use it effectively within the classroom setting. This colloquium highlights the important role played by school leaders in ensuring the successful transition of schools within the ‘information age’. It is argued that principals need to inspire, encourage and support teachers to meet the challenges that lie ahead. The colloquium reports on a case study of a pre-school leader’s practices in the use of ICT. The study investigates the strategies the principal used to promote the use of ICT in the pre-school and her influence on ICT use in the kindergarten. Meeting the needs of society in the new ‘information age’, through information and communication technology (ICT) in education, has become an important focus in Hong Kong. Curriculum reform has highlighted information technology knowledge and skills as one of the important generic skills and key learning areas (Hong Kong Curriculum Development Council, June 2001). Furthermore, the Hong Kong Government has promoted the us