Significant lack of qualifications in science and maths subjects

More students need to improve their skills in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) qualifications as there is a significant lack of such knowledge among young people.

This is according to the Independent Games Developers' Association (TIGA), which stated there is a "fundamental issue" surrounding the number of 16 to 18-year-olds who are qualified in subjects of this nature.

Dr Richard Wilson, chief executive officer of TIGA, said: "Technology such as tablets in schools is always nice to have, and it's quite possible that with the advent of academy schools, which will often be supported by businesses or private sector organisations or charities, there will be opportunities to bring in [better] technology, software and hardware."

People may like to improve their skills and gain extra qualifications though online learning strategies that can provide easily-accessible materials for learning on the go and at a person's own convenience.

Mr Wilson added that the shortfall of STEM qualifications should be seen as "the biggest area of concern" for the UK's science and technology industries.

According to the expert, there was a 25 per cent drop in the number of STEM graduates in the years between 2004 and 2008.

These comments come in the wake of an announcement from secretary for education Michael Gove, who recently stated that the current ICT curriculum is not adequately preparing students for jobs in later life and should be reformed to focus more on computer science rather just lessons on how to use a PC and software systems.

Speaking at the BETT education technology trade fair, Mr Gove said the curriculum will be overhauled to reflect the demands of advancing technologies.

The Department for Education is to launch a consultation on withdrawing the current ICT lesson plans and schooling requirements from September this year. It is proposed that this will be replaced with a more intensive approach to the science of computers in line with STEM subjects.