Topic 10 - Integrating IT In Teaching and Learning.

 

Word Processing, electronic spreadsheet and database are important tools to assist you and students in teaching and learning.

This software application is used in various subjects and situations. The use of word processing (such as MS Word) is appropriate in language subjects and to produce activity reports on projects. Presentations on projects can be done using the presentation application (such as MS PowerPoint).

In this topic, you will learn about integrating the software application into teaching and learning. To do this, the teacher needs to have skills in conducting Information Technology and also a change the functions of a teacher and students.

 Opinions on the Use of IT in Education

• The Effects on the Functions of the Teacher, Student and the Classroom

The integration of IT in educaton has a great impact on the functions of the teacher, student and the use of space in the classroom. The teacher cannot remain as an imparter of knowledge as information technology allows the latest information to be accessed easily. This causes changes in learning activities. Now we will discuss the functions of the teacher, student and the classroom.

• The function of a teacher

The teacher plays an important role in teaching and learning. Below are the functions of a teacher.

Standard Characteristics of  Teachers and Students from the Aspect of IT Application

To carry out IT integration in teaching and learning, the teachers have to equip themselves with the skills to use technology.

International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) has drawn a few useful guidelines for teachers in the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers (NETSoT). There are 23 guidelines that are categorized into six, and they are:

• Operation and Technology Concept

Teachers must have the knowledge, skills and basic understanding related to technology and are able to increase their information according to their needs and the development of technology.

• Planning and Developing a Learning Environment and Experience

Teachers should know how to plan and use technology to meet the needs of a variety of studentsÊ learning ability as well as identifying and evaluating learning resources.

• Teaching, Learning and the Curriculum

Teachers implement the curriculum including the various technology based methods and strategies to improve learning.

• Testing and Evaluation

Teachers vary testing and evaluation strategies including the analysis and interpretation of data collected.

• Productivity and Professionalism

Teachers use technology to increase professionalism and continuous learning and the use of resources to enhance skills in teaching and learning.

• Social Issues, Ethics, Law and Humanities

Teachers understand  social  issues, law and  humanities to create a conducive and safe environment for students from all walks of life.

ISTE also outlines six categories of skills that students need to master to prepare them for working life, which are:

• Creativity and Innovation

Students should show thinking skills creatively, increase knowledge, create products and processes using technology.

• Communication and Collaborative

Students have to use digital media, the environment and even through distance learning to communicate and cooperate so as to contribute to other students.

• Research and Information Usage

Students use technology to access, evaluate and use information.

• Creative Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making

Students use critical thinking skills to plan and carry out research, manage projects, solve problems and make decisions using technology and digital resources.

• Digital Citizens

Students understand culture, communal issues related to technology, law and ethics.

• Operation and Technology Concept

Students   understand   the   concept,   system   and   technology   operation including the use of technology that are suitable and effective