Lesson 3: ICT in Education
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ICT (Information and Communications Technology - or Technologies) is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application, encompassing: radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network hardware and software, satellite systems and so on, as well as the various services and applications
The Education Sector Strategic Plan (ESSP) is a plan that outlines how the education sector will strive to achieve its mission over a period of five years. On page 42, the ESSP stipulates that “ICT is considered as an important aspect in developing the knowledge-based economy”. It stipulates also that the provision and improved use of information technology in the teaching and learning process at all levels underpin the plan.
It is stated in the new competency-based curriculum framework that: “The curriculum must enable educators and learners to use ICT as a tool to improve the quality of education in all subjects at all levels in teaching and learning practices. ICT must support the emergence of teaching and pedagogical learner-centered approaches as well as encourage research, communication, and collaborative learning.” The success of the process largely depends on the use of technology in the preparation of the lesson plan with essential elements such as clear indications of what will be done, how it will be done, when it will be done and, more importantly, how technology is going to be used.