Lesson 9

Computer as Information and Communication Technology

In the Educational technology 1, the role of the computer was well discussed. It was pointed out that the advent of the computer is recognized as the third revolution in education. The first was the invention of the printing press; the second, the introduction of the libraries; and the third, the invention of the computer, especially so with the advent of the microcomputer in 1975. Thus emerged computer technology in education.

Through computer technology, educators saw the amplification of learning along computer literacy. Much like reading, the modern student can now interact with computer messages; even respond to question or to computer commands. Again, much like writing, the learner can form messages using computer language or program.

Soon computer-assisted instruction (CAI) was introduced using the principle of individualized learning through positive climate that includes realism appeal with drill-exercises that uses color, music, and animation. The novelty of CAI has not waned to this especially in the basic education level as this is offered by computer-equipped private schools. But the evolving pace of innovation I today’s Information Age is so dynamic that within the first decade of the 21st century computer technology in education has matured to transform into n educative information and communication.

The Personal Computer (PC) as ICT

Until the nineties, it was still possible to distinguish between instruction media and the educational communication media.

Instructional media consist of audio-visual aid that served to enhance and enriched the teaching-learning process. Examples are the blackboard, photo, film and video.

On the other hand, educational communication media comprise the media of communication to audience including learners using the print, film, radio, television on satellite means of communication. For example, distance learning was implemented using correspondence, radio, televisions on the computer satellite system.

Close to turn of the 21st century, however such a distinction merged during to the advent of the microprocessor, also known s the personal computer (PC). This is due to the fact that the PC user at home, office and school has before him tool for both audio-visual creation and media communication.

To illustrate, let’s examine the programs (capabilities) normally installed in an ordinary modern PC:

• Microsoft Office- program for comparing text, graphics, photos into letters, articles, reports, etc.
• Power Point- for preparing lecture presentations.
• Excel – for spreadsheets and similar graphic sheets.
• Internet Explorer – Access to the internet.
• Yahoo or Google – Websites; e-mail, chat rooms, Blog sites new service (print/video) educational software etc.
• Adobe Reader – Graphs/photo composition and editing.
• M.S.N.-Mail/chat messaging.
• Windows media player – CV, VCD, player.
• Cyber link power – DVD player.
• Game house – video games.