Some benefits of ICT

Our objective is to develop our younger generation to be life-long, independent learners. 

Usage of ICT is an invaluable tool.  It allows for instant access (in the presence of Wi-Fi or 3G) to learning resources (if they are available online).  It enables learning anywhere and anytime.  Students are able to learn at their own pace as well as interact with peers and experts beyond the limits of the school.  Computer modeling and diagrams can help illustrate certain points.  Students can, for instance, modify variables in different experiments and view the results.  The teacher could facilitate by aiding in the interpretation of the results.

e.g. 1: Empty axes allow for plotting of graphs after altering variables

 



Worked examples on calculating rate of a reaction, initial and instantaneous rate. 
Its actually a step-by-step guide, although the illustration shows otherwise.

 

Visit the website below for more details on the benefits of ICT

http://www.icponline.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=86:the-role-of-ict-in-learning&catid=27:education&Itemid=47

Definitions

What is ICT?

ICTs stand for information and communication technologies and are defined as ‘a diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, and to create, disseminate, store and manage information’. 

E-Learning

E- learning is usually associated with higher education and corporate training that uses an information network for course delivery, interaction and facilitation.  Online learning and web-based learning is part of e-learning and refers to learning using an internet browser. 

Blended Learning

This refers to learning models that combine traditional classroom elements with e-learning solutions.  ‘Blending’ was prompted by the fact that not all learning was best achieved in an electronically mediated environment, especially without a ‘live’ instructor.

Consideration must be given to the subject matter, the learning objectives and outcomes, characteristics of the learners and the learning context so that students can learn and instructors can teach effectively. 

Competencies for the 21^st Century.

Digital Age Literacy *Basic scientific, mathematical and technological literacies *Visual and information literacies *Cultural literacy and global awareness	Inventive Thinking *Adaptability and ability to manage complexity *Curiosity, creativity and risk-taking *Higher-order thinking and sound reasoning
Effective Communication *Teaming, collaboration and inter-personal skills *Personal and social responsibility *Interactive communication	High Productivity *Ability to plan, prioritize and manage for results *Effective use of real-world tools *Relevant and high quality products

http://www.ncrel.org/engauge/skills/21skills.htm viewed on 29 June 2011    

Beginnings

I’m honestly not IT savvy, I prefer the pencil and paper rather than staring down a computer screen.  While using the computer, I sometimes feel disconnected from appreciating the things around me.  I was from a generation of students, whose teachers used the chalkboard and different colours of chalk to illustrate ionic bonding between the sodium ion and chloride ion.  The closest interaction with technology was the overhead projector.  I am not complaining though, lessons were fun and the classroom was lively.  We always felt engaged and learning did not feel like a chore.

As we move into the 21^st century, we are constantly evolving.  We seek means to adapt to the changing landscape.  Just as animals have evolved to survive the ice age, humans or homo sapiens have evolved from using stone tools in 50,000 B.C. to using technology for solving their problems.  For instance, banks employ the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) daily.  From automated-teller machines to internet banking, where users can make financial decisions at home.  Other examples would be the internet, allowing for easy access to information to make critical decisions, online-shopping, online-delivery, EZ-link cards, Light rapid transit system, sending e-mails, creating databases, registration, storing information, SMS-ing and etc… etc… We have become immersed in technology.  Our lives and lifestyle has evolved with technology, so much so, that most people cannot survive without technology.

Failure to evolve, as seen in nature, means extinction.  The dodo bird, native to Mauritius, became extinct in the mid 17^th century due to human behaviour.  The bird, though it could not fly, ought to have made an attempt to hide from the sailors.  Its inability to adapt, led to its eventual end.  As educators, we are equipping students with the necessary skills and attributes to not just survive, but to succeed in the 21^st century.  Being proficient with ICT will definitely set the younger generation on the right path to success.