Techno blog for the 7^th week (27/8/08)

“Back to the core business”, that was the phrase that comes across my mind as I entered the computer lab for the technology class this week. Hmm, actually the holiday blues was still in the air…but what to do, this is the life of a student, which equals to study, study and study……

As for this week, the lecturer brought me across a tour on the articles regarding the ICT. It tells about why a teacher needs to use the ICT in the classroom, how a teacher should introduce the skills in ICT to the pupils and the benefits of using ICT. From here, I realize that a teacher have to teach the pupils step by step on how to use the ICT appliances. The expectation of the teacher should not be too much or too high depending on the pupils background knowledge. As for example if the pupils have zero knowledge on computer, so the teacher should teach the pupils step by step right from the very basic step and every little progress made by that particular student should be acknowledge by him. This is vital to overcome the fear of computer by the pupils. Based on my experience, one who did not get exposed to the computer has this kind of fear. And in order to get rid of the fear, that person should be allowed to explore the computer by themselves slowly. Once they have the confidence, it would not be a problem anymore. Again, this requires teachers’ effort to provide encouragement and support.

Talking about the benefits of using ICT, I do believe in its efficiencies. It is fast, less time consuming, durable and also easy to manage. As for example, during the past time where a typewriter was used, if there is any mistakes done, then the writing process have to be restart all over again right from the beginning. Somehow, with the use of computer, this kind of mess can be overcome easily by just deleting the particular part only. Besides that, by the use of smart board for example, will save a lot of time and energy especially in making up the teaching aids. This is very different from the traditional method which requires one to cut out papers, draw pictures and paste it onto the manila card. It’s a tiring job after all.

Next, the use of ICT in the classroom also encourages collaborative working spirit. This can be seen when a teacher sets up task that requires pupils to work in groups. Certain period of time will be given to the pupils to work on the given task. For example, they are required to come up with a power point presentation in groups of five. In the process of completing the task, all of them will interact and learn with each other and thus create a meaningful learning situation.

In short, I do agree that ICT have the power to enhance the teaching and learning to the maximum. Despite its shortcoming, there is still more positive insight to be gained.