Information and communication technologies (ICTs) — which include radio and television, as well as newer digital technologies such as computers and the Internet — have been proven as potentially powerful tools for educational change and reform. When used appropriately, different ICTs can help expand access to education, strengthen the relevance of education to the increasingly digital workplace, and raise educational quality by helping make teaching and learning into an active process connected to real life.
MEANING OF ICT
Information and Communication Technologies refers to technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications such as the Telephony, Internet, wireless networks, cell phones, etc.
It is an integration of tele-communications such as telephone lines, wireless signals, computers, necessary software, storage devices, audio-visual systems, etc. which enable us to access, retrieve, store, transmit, and manipulate information.
Information and Communication Technology in education is the processing of information its communication facilities and features that variously support teaching, learning and a range of activities in education.
DEFINITIONS
"ICT is defined, as a "diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, and to create, disseminate, store, and manage information."
"ICT implies the technology which consists of electronic devices and associated human interactive materials that enable the user to employ them for a wide range of teaching - learning processes in addition to personal use." These technologies include computers, the Internet, broadcasting technologies, and telephony.
"Information and communications technology (ICT) in education is the processing of information and its communications facilities and features that variously support teaching, learning and a range of activities in education."
Characteristics of ICT
* Support teaching and learning process
* Enhancing teacher training
* Cater to individual differences
* Minimize psychological barriers
* Effective audiovisual effects
* Motivating to learn
* Uses of contemporary devices
* Brings about changes and reforms in education
* Educate both formal and informal settings
* Real time access to information.
* Connecting Geographically dispersed regions
* Facilitating acquisition of basic skills
* Wider range of communication media.
* Expanding learning opportunity
* Facilitator of higher-order thinking skills
SCOPE OF ICT
1. Anytime, Anywhere learning… Now computers and web networks reduce the pace of imparting knowledge. One can study whenever he wills irrespective of whether it is day or night and irrespective of being in India or in US because of the boom in IT.
2. Authentic and up to date information… The information and data which are available on the NET is purely correct and up to date.
3. Access to variety of learning resources… In the era of technology ICT aids plenty of resources to enhance the teaching skills and learning ability. It facilitate easy and quick access to rich teaching and learning resources including ICT systems and services, computing resources, online learning materials, e-learning, and other education centered applications.
4. E-Learning… ICT encourage the use of eLearning and adoption of its tools and technologies to facilitate widening access to learning and improving educational achievements.
5. Distance learning... Distance Learning, method of learning at a distance rather than in a classroom. Home-based learning, and part-time learning…
6. Online library… Internets support thousands of different kinds of operational and experimental services one of which is online library. We can get plenty of data on this online library.
7. Lifelong learning… Develop a framework for web enabled lifelong learning through continuous education and training.
8. Multimedia approach to education… Audio-Visual Education, planning, preparation, and use of devices and materials that involve sight, sound, or both, for educational purposes. It enhance and enrich learning with variety of individual needs.
9. ICT as an administrative tool… Different types of systems and software are useful educational management and school administration.
10. Better accesses to children with disabilities… Information technology has brought drastic changes in the life of disabled children. IT provides various software and technique to educate these poor peoples.
Needs of ICT in Education:
* Population explosion
* Knowledge explosion
* Universal and compulsory education
* Mass education
* Adult education
* Education equality
* Improvement of Quality education
* Appropriate learning environment