Lesson 9: Computers as Information and Communication Technology

Content

Through computer technology, educators saw amplification of learning along computer literacy. Much like reading, the modern student can now interact with computer messages; even respond to question or to computer commands. Like writing, the learners can form messages using computer language or program. But the evolving pace of innovation in today’s information age is so dynamic that within the first decade of 21^st century, computer technology in education has matured to transform into educative information and communication technology in education. With the rise of Personal Computer in the classroom would enable teachers to demonstrate a new lesson, presenting a new material, illustrate how to use new programs and to show new websites. There are these educational instructional media and communication media which comprises such media which are used as an aid for instruction and communication. Examples are the using of print, film, blackboard, television and video. There are also programs which are normally installed in the personal computer- these are Microsoft office, PowerPoint, excel, Internet Explorer, Yahoo or Google, Adobe Reader, windows media player and Cyber power DVD.

          ICT stands for Information Communications Technology. It covers any product that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit or receive information electronically in a digital form. It is also a diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, create, disseminate, store and manage information.

Experience – All these years I’ve been using the products of ICT. These programs especially the Microsoft office and PowerPoint are commonly used for education purposes. It is where we could compose texts, put graphics, photos, and write letters, articles and even reports. Excel on the other hand is used for an easier and quicker way to do computations. I’ve been always using Internet Explorer, Yahoo and Google especially when there are assignments, reports and projects that should be researched. These websites don’t just contain information but it would also offer chat rooms, blog sites and news service. Lastly, I also use media players sometimes for entertainment purposes especially to lessen boredom.

Reflection – Teachers and learners no longer have to rely solely on printed books and other materials which are found in libraries and available in limited quantities for their educational needs. ICT would be of great help since it allows access to resource persons- mentors, experts, researchers, professionals, business leaders and peers all over the world. The ability to use ICTs effectively and efficiently represent a competitive edge in an increasingly globalizing job. ICT encourages interaction and cooperation among students, teachers and experts wherever they are. It would also promote thematic, integrative approach to teaching and learning. ICT will not just empower us with knowledge and digital skills but also it would develop appropriate values we need to consider in handling technologies.

Application – The use of ICTs will improve the quality of education by motivating the learners to learn. ICTs such as videos and other multimedia software can be used to provide challenging ad authentic content that will engage students in an interactive teaching-learning process. ICTs are also used to improve the access and the quality of teacher training. Teachers would be able to enhance their technical skills which will provide more opportunities for them to be more literate not only in their field but also with the emerging innovative world. Thus, it will enable teachers to be more globally competitive. ICT enhances learning mobilizes tools for examination, calculation and analysis for information, thus providing a platform for students inquiry, analysis and construction of new information.