Three Factors Influencing Effective Use Of ICT By Teachers
The use of technology in education is one of the major trends in educational reforms all over the world. Integrating technology into teaching and learning is a process widely perceived as a great asset in the reforms. It is seen as an ideal way of reforming the traditional curriculum process and pedagogy. They are capable of transforming the teaching and learning process from being a dull teacher dominated activity to an exciting teacher centered process which nurtures confidence, initiative and mental skills.
Teachers are yet to effectively use today’s technologies in the classroom as well as continue to develop and adapt to new technologies that emerge in future. The following are some of the factors that could be contributing to this state.
Teachers’ ICT Competence:Information communication technology literacy goes beyond how to use ICT instructional materials to include the ability to prepare, use and appropriately select these materials in order to build knowledge, develop critical and creative thinking in students. Teachers need training not only in computer literacy, but also in application of various educational software, for teaching and learning. Subject teachers should therefore be trained in the various methods of introducing them into their particular content areas.
Teachers’ Perception:Teachers are key people to effective use of technology in the education system. The attitude of the teacher has been found to play an important role in technology use in the teaching-learning process. How people perceive and react to the technologies is far more important than technical obstacles in influencing ICT implementation and use. This is important in determining how much a teacher is willing to learn and use computers with their students. Teachers who perceive greater ICT related support being available to them make use of technologies in the teaching-learning process much better.
Technical Support: Along with ICT training, one needs a technology related support mechanism to gradually induce the integration. Teachers need support in use and integration of technology into the curriculum and teaching methods. Teachers are afraid of using computers when they are not sure of where to turn for help when something goes wrong.
Teacher Training Institutions are expected to play a significant role in introducing ICT in education in order for graduates to be more competent in their use in the classroom. They should ensure every teacher knows how to use technology, pedagogy and subject area content effectively in their classroom teaching. This will help teachers understand their roles in a technologically oriented classroom. Such understanding can only take place when teachers are actively involved in teaching and learning with technology across all disciplines.
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