ICT TOOLS FOR EFFECTIVE TEACHING

 ICT TOOLS FOR EFFECTIVE TEACHING

INTRODUCTION:

           ICT (Information and communication technology) deals with the application of different electronic media in the collection, storage, and rapid access of information to users. In a broader sense, ICT is refer to the whole set of enabling technology concerned with communication, manipulation of information (hardware and software), networking , data storage, transmission on encompassing data, voice and video. It can improve education in many ways. The use of computer in education can be more efficient, it can provide better learning result and it can be made adaptive to the individual learner.

History of ICT in Education:

         The history of the use of ICT in education is relatively short. Before 1979, computers existed primarily in tertiary level educational institutions. Then, in the eighties, microcomputers gan to be distributed to schools, and teachers began to grapple with the question of how to use computer for education rather than simply educating about computer. From the mid-nineties, the use of ICT in schools rapidly expanded in developed nations through curriculum support, networking, the professional development of teachers and software improvements.

Methods of Teaching from ancient to modern:

         In olden days, teachers were mostly presented information orally and at times used palm leaves to provide written information. Then they changed to chalk board to present and explain the requisite information. With the advent of the printing machine, printed texts were extensively used to share information. With the advancement of science and technology, teachers started supplementing their teaching with audiovisual materials. In modern classrooms, electronic-media started finding their place in teaching. The use of electronic-media has changed the complexion of today’s classrooms. We hear nowadays ‘virtual classrooms’, ’web-based learning’, ’computer mediated learning etc. which enables the student to learn anything of his choice, at anytime from anywhere and that too at his own pace and convenience.

Characteristics of ICT method:

The two international commissions and various national level committees in India in the past 30 years or so have stressed on a paradigm shift in the area of education, teaching and instruction.  Since important characteristics of e- education are as follows

v  Flexible education

v  Learner autonomy

v  Access and success for all

v  Large mass covered

v  More practicable teaching learning

v  Large and qualitative content

v  Error free and speedy technology

v  Transparent and Authentic system of education

v  Reduces students indiscipline and unrest problem

v  More planed and organized system of education

Categories of ICT tools:

           ICT can enhance the quality of education in several ways: by increasing learner motivation and engagement, by facilitating the acquisition of basic skills, and by enhancing teacher training. ICT is also transformational tool which, when used appropriately, can promote the shift to a learner-centered environment. ICT is effective and integral tools in education. Following are the various kinds of ICT tools. They are:

1. Audio tools.                   

2. Video tools

3. Graphics tools.

4. Mind mapping tools.

5. Project tools.

6. Modelling tools.

The Promise of ICT in Education:

For developing countries ICT have the potential for increasing access to and improving the relevance and quality of education. It thus represents a potentially equalizing strategy for  developing countries.

ICT helps to expand access to education:

         ICT is a potentially powerful tool for extending educational opportunities, both formal and non-formal, to previously underserved constituencies—scattered and rural populations, groups traditionally excluded from education due to cultural or social reasons such as ethnic minorities, girls and women, persons with disabilities, and the elderly, as well as all others who for reasons of cost or because of time constraints are unable to enroll on campus.

      The main theme of the ICT is to provide “Effective learning for all at anytime and anywhere”  

• Anytime, anywhere.

          One defining feature of ICT is their ability to transcend time and space.ICT makes possible asynchronous learning, or learning characterized by a time lag between the delivery of instruction and its reception by learners.

e.g. Online course materials.

• Access to remote learning resources.

          Teachers and learners no longer have to rely solely on printed books and other materials in     physical media housed in libraries (and available in limited quantities) for their educational needs. With the Internet and the World Wide Web, a wealth of learning materials in almost every subject and in a variety of media can now be accessed from anywhere at any time of the day and by an unlimited number of people. This is particularly significant for many schools in developing countries, and even some in developed countries, that have limited and outdated library resources. ICT also facilitate access to resource persons, experts, researchers, professionals, business leaders, and peers—all over the world.

Role of the teacher in using ICT:

          Role of the teacher is important in using ICT in classroom. Even the most ICT fluent teachers need to continuously upgrade their skills and keep abreast of the latest developments and best practices. Research on the use of ICTs in different educational settings over the years invariably identify as a barrier to success the inability of teachers to understand why they should use ICTs and how exactly they can use ICTs to help them teach better. In order to avoid this proper training must be provided to the teachers.

 Lesson Planning of  the teacher:

     Before using ICT tools within the classroom, teachers must have a proper preparation. The teacher must know when, where and how the ICT tools are used. The following figure shows the planning procedure of the teacher.

Development of ICT Skills for Teacher:

    For effective development of ICT skills and knowledge, and enhanced use of ICT in colleges of Education, teacher should require:

-       appropriate training (appropriate in terms of skills, knowledge, relevance to educational goals and priorities, and delivery)

-       ready access to ICT

-       ongoing support and advice to encourage progression beyond initial training

-       Set within a culture which encourages change but at a pace appropriate to teachers and schools.

Use of ICT to improve the quality of education:

            Improving the quality of education and training is a critical issue, particularly at a time

of educational expansion. ICT can enhance the quality of education in several ways: by increasing learner motivation and engagement, by facilitating the acquisition of basic skills, and by enhancing teacher training. It also has been used in educational initiatives to:

·         Increase access to education (e.g. through virtual classrooms)

·         Improve the quality of teaching and learning (e.g.by providing online content or even training teachers)

·         Improve knowledge sharing and to encourage innovation. (e.g. through National research and Educational networks)

·          Increase the efficiency and effectiveness in planning and administration in education ministries, schools, class room.

ICT in Education change the teacher centered classroom in to student centered classroom : 

               The ICT feature a new role for the teacher, a complete shift away from the “sage on the stage” role to one that features a “guide on the side” mentality. In the student centered classroom, the teacher is a coach and mentor, a support person who troubleshoots and problem solves when students need such help.

The importance of ICT:

The increasing use of technology in all aspects of society makes confident, creative and productive use of ICT an essential skill for life. ICT capability encompasses not only the mastery of technical skills and techniques, but also the understanding to apply these skills purposefully, safely and responsibly in learning, everyday life and employment.ICT can be used to find, develop, analyse and present information, as well as to model situations and solve problems. ICT acts as a powerful force for change in society, and citizens should have an understanding of the social, ethical, legal and economic implications of its use, including how to use ICT safely and responsibly. Increased capability in the use of ICT supports initiative and independent learning, as pupils are able to make informed judgements about when and where to use ICT to enhance their learning and the quality of their work.

Conclusion:

          The present age is the age of technology, whereby technology plays a key role in daily lives; this also includes the education system. There are endless possibilities with the integration of ICT in the education system. It is clear that ICT is going to change a tremendously developing in quality education and personality of students.  So, there can be a strong move towards ICT by motivating all individuals connected with education. To conclude, once the teacher uses innovative ways to arouse interest and enthusiasm in the class, he will be able to help the slow learners to optimize their abilities, to meet the highest realistic expectation with the help of ICT.     

  

“ We do not think anymore of the spectacle of printing every time we read a book, the phenomenon of  tv every time we watch a movie, or the miracle of the telephone every time we make a call. The ultimate success if ICT for learning will be attained when we stop marveling about the ICT and apply our minds and emotions to the wonders of learning.”