A government advisory group has called on the Education Ministry to give computer and internet skills, the same status as learning to read and write.
In a report just published, the 21st Century Learning Reference Group said the ministry should recognise digital competencies as essential foundation skills.
It said by 2017 all school students in Year Four and above should be using their own digital devices for learning.
It also said the Government should ensure early childhood services provide digital learning, and charities and businesses should help poor families buy digital devices for their children.
The report urged a review of the Education Act saying things like restrictions on the length of the school day were barriers to innovation.
