Scope of Information and communication technology ( ICT ), Importance and Application of ICT.
ICT has caused a complete paradigm shift in the field of education and holds the potential to revolutionize the education process.
Teaching-learning process – Information and communication technology ( ICT ) has side-lined the traditional methods of teaching.
- Teaching aids – New teachings aids such as PowerPoint slideshows, videos, graphics and flowcharts, etc are made available.
- Improvement in quality of education – Information and communication technology ( ICT ) helps in better retention and improved learning.
- Self-learning – Students can use various Information and communication technology ( ICT ) based learning strategies such as Programmed learning , Computer Aided Instruction, distance learning, project based learning, simulation, etc.
- Reinforcement – Continuous Drill and Practice is possible as Information and communication technology ( ICT ) tools do not get tired of repetition.
- Individualized teaching – Teachers can modify programs and instruction to suit individual needs.
- Effective teaching – Information and communication technology ( ICT ) makes teaching-learning more enjoyable, interesting and effective.
- Co curricular activities – Can be used in science laboratories, art and craft, language laboratories, vocational training, etc.
Research –
- There is abundant information available on the Internet on Websites, E-libraries and e-forms have facilitated the research field.
- Review of related literature, education journals, and references are also available.
Publications –
- Newspapers – Information and communication technology ( ICT ) is used extensively in the print media. Newspapers are also available online.
- Websites – Students can publish their own Websites.
- Blogs – Information and communication technology ( ICT ) helps to set up blogs for logging and diary purposes.
- Wikipedia – Information can be shared, edited, viewed.
- Forums – Exchanging data and discussions and meeting with experts.
Administration –
- Information and communication technology ( ICT ) has simplified the administrative process such as admissions.
- Helps in storing records of staff and students, circulating notices via emails, salary records, payment slips, etc.
- Educational institutes can move towards paperless offices.
- Progress reports can be stored.
- Finance and Accounting can be carried out easily.
- Can be used for Library and book-keeping.
- Used for quick and easy real-time correspondence. Telephone, email, online conferencing.
- Preparation of time-table.
- Interaction of Alumni.
Evaluation –
- Different types of formative and summative tools, graphs, statistical interpretations can be made.
- ICT helps to easily prepare question papers, questions banks.
- Immediate recording and marking and feedback of students’ performance.
- Printing report cards and progress cards.
- Students can revise and practice for tests.
Skills and Qualities of an ICT Teacher –
Skill and Quality.
• Skill is an ability to perform a particular task.
• Quality is personality traits which reflects in behaviour.
Skills for ICT Teacher
- Handling of Hardware
- Operations of Software
- Connectivity of machines
- Observant of netiquettes
- Use of secondary storage devices
- Demonstration
- Fault finding and Problem solving
- Convincing power
Qualities of ICT teacher
- Technosavveyness
- Update knowledge
- Lifelong learning
- Awareness about legal and ethical issues
- Awareness of threats
- Patience
- Logical thinking
- Experimental
- Adaptive and adjustment
- Liberal
- Self control
- Commitment