ICT : PORTFOLIO

Submitted to : Mam Shabana Rehman

Submitted by : Ayesha Khan

Semester : 2

Class : B.Ed. Elementary Replica

Section : B

Roll number : 1925112062

Department : Professional studies

PORTFOLIO :
“INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
TECHNOLOGY”
ICT

Explanation :
ICTs stand for information and
communication technologies
and are defined, for the
purposes of this primer, as a
“diverse set of technological
tools and resources used to
communicate, and to create,
disseminate, store, and
manage information.” These
technologies include
computers, the Internet,
broadcasting technologies
(radio and television), and
telephony.
ROLE OF ICT IN LEARNING
We are living in a constantly evolving digital world. ICT has an
impact on nearly every aspect of our lives - from working to
socialising, learning to playing. The digital age has transformed the
way young people communicate, network, seek help, access
information and learn. We must recognise that young people are
now an online population and access is through a variety of means
such as computers, TV and mobile phones. As technology
becomes more and more embedded in our culture, we must provide
our learners with relevant and contemporary experiences that allow
them to successfully engage with technology and prepare them for
life after school.
Impact of ICT on student achievement
1. The positive impact of ICT
use in education has not been
proven In general, and despite
thousands of impact studies, the
impact of ICT use on student
achievement remains difficult to
measure and open to much
reasonable debate.
2. Positive impact more likely
when linked to pedagogy It is
believed that specific uses of ICT
can have positive effects on student
achievement when ICTs are used
appropriately to complement a
teacher’s existing pedagogical
philosophies.
3. ‘Computer Aided Instruction’
has been seen to slightly
improve student performance
on multiple choice, standardized testing in some areas
Computer Aided (or Assisted) Instruction (CAI), which refers
generally to student self-study or tutorials on PCs, has been shown
to slightly improve student test scores on some reading and math
skills, although whether such improvement correlates to real in
student learning is debatable.

4. Need for clear goals

ICTs are seen to be less effective (or ineffective) when the goals for
their use are not clear. While such a statement would appear to be
self-evident, the specific goals for ICT use in education are, in
practice, are often only very broadly or rather loosely defined.
5. There is an important tension between traditional versus
'new' pedagogies and standardized testing
Traditional, transmission-type pedagogies are seen as more
effective in preparation for standardized testing, which tends to
measure the results of such teaching practices, than are more
‘constructivist’ pedagogical styles.
6. Mismatch between methods used to measure effects
and type of learning promoted in many studies there may be a
mismatch between the methods used to measure effects and the
nature of the learning promoted by the specific uses of ICT. For
example, some studies have looked only for improvements in
traditional teaching and learning processes and knowledge
mastery instead of looking for new processes and knowledge
related to the use of ICTs. It may be that more useful analyses of
the impact of ICT can only emerge when the methods used to
measure achievement and outcomes are more closely related to the
learning activities and processes promoted by the use of ICTs.
7. ICTs are used differently in different school subjects
Uses of ICTs for simulations and
modelling in science and math
have been shown to be effective, as
have word processing and
communication software (e-mail) in the development of student
language and communication skills

IMPACT OF ICT ON STUDENT MOTIVATION

1. ICTs motivate teachers
and students
There appears to be general
consensus that both teachers
and students feel ICT use
greatly contributes to student
motivation for learning.
2. Access outside of
school affects user
confidence
(Not surprisingly) Students who use a computer at home also use
them in school more frequently and with more confidence than
pupils who have no home access.
3. Where to place computers has an impact
Placing computers in classrooms enables much greater use of ICTs
for ‘higher order’ skills than placing computers in separate
computer laboratories (indeed, fewer computers in classrooms may
enable even more use than greater numbers of computers located
in separate computer labs). Related to this is an increasing
attention given to the use of laptops by both teachers and students
(and in some places, ‘computers-on-wheels’), as well as, to a much
lesser extent, to the use of personal digital assistants and other
mobile devices.
4. Models for successfully integrating ICT use in school
and after school hours are still Emerging.
There are few successful models for the integration of student
computer use at home or in other 'informal settings' outside of
school facilities with use in school.
5. The appropriate ages for introducing computers to
students are hotly debated
On a general level, appropriate ages for student ICT use in general
are unclear. However, it is clear that certain uses are more or less
appropriate, given student ages and abilities. Emerging research
cautions against widespread use at younger ages.
6. ICTs can promote learner
autonomy
Evidence exists that use of ICTs can
increase learner autonomy for certain
learners.
7. Gender affects impact
Uses of ICTs in education in many
cases to be affected by the gender of
the learner.
8. The ‘pilot effect’ can be an important driver for positive
impact
Dedicated ICT-related interventions in education that introduce a
new tool for teaching and learning may show improvements merely
because the efforts surrounding such interventions lead teachers
and students to do ‘more’ (potentially diverting energies and
resources from other activities).
ICT for Teacher Professional Development

"ICT " is the Information and Communication Technologies. "ICT in

Education" means "Teaching and Learning with ICT "
Educational ICT tools can be divided into 3 categories: Input
source, Output source and Others.

Worldwide research has shown that ICT can lead to improved student
learning and better teaching methods. A report made by the National
Institute of Multimedia Education in Japan, proved that an increase in
student exposure to educational ICT through curriculum integration has a
significant and positive impact on student achievement, especially in terms
of "Knowledge, Comprehension", "Practical skill" and "Presentation skill" in
subject areas such as mathematics, science, and social study.
Advantages of ICT tools for education
1‧ Through ICT, images can easily be used in teaching and
improving the retentive memory of students.
2‧ Through ICT, teachers can easily explain complex instructions
and ensure students' comprehension.
3‧ Through ICT, teachers are able to create interactive classes and
make the lessons more enjoyable, which could improve student
attendance and concentration.
EVOLUTION OF ICT
ICT is evolving in a very fast pace. Our grandparents grew up in a
society with no telephone; our parents in a society in which the
radio was the first and television was the last source of
information. We live in a world of internet. And the new generation
in in the wireless world. As a result the world around us also has
changed dramatically over the years. This dramatic change in the
field of ICT is a result of innovations in the field of science, defense
and business. These innovations have reduced the sizes of the
technological tools and increased the speed in which they operate
to process data and communicate information.

We can identify five phases of ICT evolution. They are evolution in

computer, PC, microprocessor, internet and wireless links.

Phase I
The first phase related to evolution
of ICT is identified with the creation
of electromagnetic calculator
during World War II, weighing about
5 tons. Invention of transistors in
1947 led to development of smaller
but versatile computers. With the
input-output technology changing
from punch cards to magnetic
tapes, "Computer" became a catch
word.

Phase II
The second phase of ICT evolution
is associated with the development
of personal computers during
1970's. Development of chip
technology and manufacturing
magnetic discs transformed huge
computers into desktops, which are
called personal computers. Word processing, accounting and
graphics became very accessible.

Phase III
Third phase of ICT evolution is
related to development of
microprocessors.
Microprocessor, a multipurpose,
programmable device that
accepts digital data as input,
processes it according to
instructions stored in its
memory, and provides results as
output. Microprocessors reduced the
cost of processing power.

Phase IV
The fourth phase of ICT evolution is around networking.
Starting from connecting computers within a small
geographic area for the
field of Defense and
Education to connecting
the computers worldwide
resulting in internet is the
landmark development in
the field of ICT.
This resulted in breaking the distance barrier across the
geographies and world being called a global village. Social
networking is a by product of this. Introduction of
broadband has accelerated this evolution.
Phase V
The fifth phase of ICT evolution is related to the development of
wireless, which refers to the present phase. This phase began with
the invention of the mobile phone. The initial mobile phones were
large and bulky. Reduction
in size has been
accompanied by a greatly
expanded range of
functions. Now mobile
phones are used for
talking, transmitting
messages, pictures and
music, browsing,
navigating. Satellite
phones have allowed us to
get connected even in the
absence of telephone and
cell phones.

COMPUTER AND ICT :

Computers are electronic
devices that receive data,
manipulate the data and then
turn it into useful information,
before storing it and/or sending
it to someone, or somewhere, to
be read or acted upon.

The following figure tries to

explain how a computer works.
You can see that the functions of
a computer are similar to the stages of the information-processing
cycle.

Looking at the figure, you will see that all basic computers consist
of four functions:
1. Input
2. Storage
3. Processing
4. Output

GENERATIONS OF COMPUTER
There are Five Generations of computers:
1 First Generation(1946-1955)
2.Second Generation( 1956-1965)
3.Third Generation( 1966-1975)
4.Fourth Generation( 1976-1985)
5.Fifth Generation(1986-onward)

First Generation Computer(1946-1955)

First generation computer uses
Vacuum tubes, Magnetic tape
drives and magnetic core
memories were developed.
ENIAC (Electronic Numeric
Integrator And Calculator ) was
the first electronic digital
computer. It uses about 18,000
vacuum tubes. Its size was too
much large. This was very hard
to read and write programs by
every person. The first generation computer produces too
much heat.

Second Generation Computer (1956-1965)

Second generation computer
uses a new electronic device
called Transistor in the place
of Vacuum tube. Storage
capacity of computer also
increase during this
generation. Second
generation computers also
started showing the
characteristics of modern day
computers with utilities such
as printers, disk storage and
operating systems. Many
financial information was
processed using these
computers.

Third Generation Computer(1966-1975)

In third generation computer transistor
were replaced with Integrated Circuit
(IC) which is a combination of number
of transistor and other electronic
components fused together on single
crystal. This generation machine uses
magnetic tape and magnetic disk as
secondary storage device.
Fourth generation computer(1976-1985)
In fourth generation computer IC were
replaced with Microprocessors .A
microprocessor chip consist of entire
central processing unit in a single chip.
Computing speed increased . Due to the
reduction of cost and the availability of
the computers power at a small place
allowed everyday user to benefit.

Fifth generation computer(1986-onward)

In fifth generation computer VLSI
technology were replaced by Ultra
large Scale Integration (ULSI)
technology. This technology helped to
developed very small but extremely
powerful and fast computers which
come to be known as ROBOTS. The
fifth generation computers will be
under Artificial-Intelligence. The idea of
fifth generation computer was
introduced by Japan’s Ministry of
International Trade and Industry in
1982.

TYPES OF COMPUTERS :

1.PERSONAL COMPUTER (PC)

 Self-contained computer capable of input, processing, output,

and storage.
 Must have at least one input device, one storage device, one
output device, a processor, and memory.
 Three major groups of PCs are desktop computers, portable
computers, and mobile devices/handheld computers.
2. DESKTOP COMPUTER
 PC that fits on a desk and runs on
power from an electrical wall outlet.
 The CPU can be housed in either a
vertical or a horizontal case.
 Has separate components (keyboard,
mouse, etc.) that are each plugged
into the computer.
 May be used in the home, home
office, library, or corporate setting.
PORTABLE COMPUTERS:
4. TABLETS
 A tablet is a one-piece mobile
computer. They typically have
a touchscreen with few
physical buttons but an on-
screen, virtual keyboard is
commonly used. Though
generally self-contained, a
tablet computer may be
connected to a physical
keyboard or other input device.

5. MOBILE DEVICES/ HANDHELD

 Personal computer small enough to fit into a person's hand,
also called handheld, pocket PC or Palmtop.
 Many can be synchronized with a personal computer as a
backup.
Examples:
 Mobile Internet device
 Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)
  IPod MP3 Players
 Smartphone / Tablet Mobile Phone
 Tablet Computer
 Portable Media Player
 Handheld Game Console
6. WORKSTATIONS
 High-performance single-
user computer with advanced
input, output and storage
components that can be
networked with other
workstations.
 Used for complex
applications that require
considerable computing
power and high-quality
graphics resolution.
Examples are computer-
aided design (CAD),
computer-assisted
manufacturing (CAM),
desktop publishing, and software development.

7. MAINFRAME COMPUTER
 Capable of accommodating
hundreds of network users
performing different computing
tasks.
 Government agencies, banks,
universities and insurance
companies use them to handle
millions of transactions each day.
 Usually the size of a large cabinet.
8. SUPER COMPUTER
  Fastest, most powerful, and most expensive type of computer
designed for multiple users.
 Many are capable of performing trillions of calculations in a
single second.
 Typical uses
 Weather forecasting
 Comparing DNA sequences
 Creating artificially intelligent robots
 Performing financial analyses
9. SPECIAL PURPOSE COMPUTERS
 Computers are, in fact, all around you. Microprocessor chips
are found in many electronic devices (in your iPod, in your
DVD player, in your microwave, in your car, and in your
phone). These are special-purpose computers that run
programs to control equipment and optimize its performance.
 Examples:
 Household appliances
 Automobiles
 Electrical circuit breakers
 Smoke alarms

USEFUL TERMS OF COMPUTERS :

DATA :
 Data is the complete list of facts and details like text,
observations, figures, symbols and description of things. It is
the raw list of facts that are processed to gain information.
The basic concept of data is associated with scientific
research collected by different research organisations.
 For example, the information collected for writing a research
paper is data until it is presented in an organized manner.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF DATA :
Data can be of two types:
  Qualitative data: It is the non-numerical data. For eg., texture
of the skin, colour of eyes, etc.
 Quantitative data: Quantitative data is given in numbers. Data
in the form of questions such as “how much”, “how many”,
gives the quantitative data.

INFORMATION

 Information is the processed, organised and structured data.

It Technology and Active Learning

 Technology supports active student learning, especially

independent inquiry,

 It allows for small groups of learners to engage in active

learning as members of a cooperative teams.
 Provide students with the opportunity to be self-directed,
active learners, who could work independently or
cooperatively in small groups. context for data. However, both
the terms are used together, information can be easily
understood than data.
 For example, the data compiled in an organized way in a
research paper provides information about a particular
concept.

METHODS OF CONVEYING
INFORMATION
There are several methods for
conveying information such as images,
texts, sounds and number
representations.

APPROACHES TO COMPUTER USE IN SCHOOLS

The function of computers in schools differs from that of
other educational technologies. In the case of films, radio,
instructional television, overhead projectors, and other
instructional media, educational technology is used to
support and enhance the teacher's role as instructor.
Teacher support has also been one of the justifications for
the introduction of computers in schools, but it has not
been the only, nor the most important, justification.
Computers are also promoted as an important part of the
school curriculum. Learning about computers and
acquiring computer skills have been accepted by
educators and the lay public as a necessary curricular
requirement because they give students tools needed to
function effectively in modern American society.
The role and function of computers in schools can be
classified according to three categories:
(1) computer literacy
(2) computers as tools
(3) computers as a catalyst for school transformation.

DEFINITION OF TECHNOLOGY :
  Technology is a means by which human beings use their
inventions, innovations and discoveries to satisfy their needs
and desires.
 Technology is concerned with making things happen.
 Technology is a mental activity in order to produce
something unusual to satisfy your needs and requirements.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEFINITION :

Information Technology, or IT, is the study or of computers and
telecommunications to store, retrieve, transmit, or send data.

The term IT is commonly used as a synonym for computers and

their networks, but it also encompasses other information
distribution technologies, like television and smartphones.
Essentially, IT refers to anything related to computing technology.

COMPONENTS OF IT :
IT has three main components:

 Computer is an electronic machine that can be instructed to

accept, process, store, and present information to a user.

 Communication Networks is a system composed of

interconnected computers, peripherals, telecommunications
and other specialized devices that allow information to be
moved between two remote points of communication.

 Know-how is the ability to draw on the power of IT to solve

problems and to take advantage of the opportunities it
creates.

USES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN BUSINESS

Whether you work in a large or small business, Information
Technology is going to play a large role in your day-to-day tasks.
Businesses tend to use IT in three main ways: to support basic
information processing tasks, to help with decision-making, and to
support innovation.
For instance, when it comes to information processes, IT is used to
streamline tasks from computing and printing payroll to creating
presentations. IT also supports building websites for products and
services.

USES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN SOCIETY

As a society, we have taken the steps to embrace IT more than ever
before. We see it almost everywhere, but especially with online
education, social networks, smartphones, job creation, agriculture,
and entertainment.

One of the many segments that have changed within our society is
the introduction of schools without boundaries. Thanks to IT,
students can learn from anywhere
there is an internet connection, no
matter where they are and what their
topic of interest is. The same can be
said for those working remote for
their place of work, as IT makes this
easier than ever before.

IT is also bringing society leaps and

bounds ahead of communicating and
having relationships with others.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
EXAMPLES

Whether you find yourself in a conventional workplace or not, you

are bound to encounter and use Information Technology in varying
aspects of your life. Some that you may encounter include:

 Telephone and radio equipment

 Performance management software for managing goal setting
and performance review
 Software for word processing and spreadsheets
 Video conferencing equipment
 Personal computers
 Content management software for blogging and collaboration
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IT AND ICT :
ICT stands for "Information and Communication Technology’. IT
stands for "Information Technology’.

 The two are very similar.

 The main difference is that IT is more widely used within

industry, whereas ICT is applied to the academic and
education side and used in places of learning, such as
school, colleges and universities.

 Information and communications technologies (ICT) are the

computing and communications facilities and features that
variously support teaching, learning and a range of activities
in education.

EDUCATION IN PAKISTAN
Education is the primary need for the development of mankind.
Education tells us the better way of living and guides us in every
aspect of life, it is the most powerful weapon which you can use to
change the world. Education spread light in life, it frees an
individual from misconceptions and blind belief. It is the key factor
in the success of any nation.

DEFINITION OF EDUCATION
EDUCATION SYSTEM IN PAKISTAN :
The education system is divided into six categories which are as
under:

 Pre-Primary schools ( Beginning Classes)

 Primary schools (class I-V)
 middle schools (class VI-VIII)
 Secondary schools (class IX-X)
 Higher secondary schools ( class XI-XII)
 University level ( Graduation/ Masters)
The system is overseen by the Federal and provincial
governments.  According to the research, there are 260,803
registered institutes in Pakistan facilitating over 41,025,645
students where public sector institutes are around 70% and 30%
are run by private organizations. The nation is committed to
upgrade the literacy rate and to promote the education, for this
purpose the government takes initiatives and after the 18th
Amendment in the constitution, there has been little change in the
system. 

EDUCATION POLICY :
Education policy is the principles and government policymaking in
educational sphere, as well as the collection of laws and rules that
govern the operation of education systems.(wikipedia2013).
Education occurs in many forms for many purposes through many
institutions.
Examples include early childhood education, kindergarten through
to 12th grade, two and four year colleges or universities, graduate
and professional education, adult education and job training.
Therefore, education policy can directly affect the education people
engage in at all ages.
Education policies in Pakistan

 National Education Conference: 1947

 The New Education Policy: 1970
 The Education Policy: 1972-80
 National Education Policy and Implementation Programme:
1979
 National Education Policy: 1992
 National Education Policy: 1998-2010
SOME PROBLEMS IN EDUCATION SYSTEM OF PAKISTAN
1. Education system based on Unequal lines
The education system of Pakistan is based on unequal lines.
Medium of education is different in both public and private
school and also the curriculum and system of education is
entirely different . In short there is no uniformity in Education
system of Pakistan, which create disparities among people.
2. Poverty
Poverty is another reason which restricts parents in Pakistan to
send there children’s to public and private schools for acquiring
 education. Consequently they prefer sending there children to
Madrassas where education is free.

3. Lack of awareness
Lack of awareness or guidance is major issue prevailing in
Pakistan due to low literacy rate.
4. Cramming based examination system :
Examination is a tool to evaluate student learning but
unfortunately the examination held in Education system of
Pakistan only test memory of the student and does not work on
their development and learning.
5. Lack of quality teachers :
Teacher indeed, anchor the education system. Their
qualifications, experience, training, aptitude act as a catalyst to
provide refined future of the nation. But unfortunately most of
the teacher hired by public and private schools are not highly
qualified.
6. Cost of education :
The economic cost of private school is normally higher than
the public or government schools. The paradox is that private
schools are better in providing quality education but not
everywhere and the government school ensure equitable
access but do not provide quality education.

WAYS TO IMPROVE EDUCATION SYSTEM :

1. Implementation of national Education policy :
The government of Pakistan needs not only to implement the
national education policy but also increase the spending of its
GDP more on education and its development.

2. Uniform curriculum in educational institutions :

Although it may not be possible for the government to
immediately change the education system in Pakistan but
they can initially introduce a uniform curriculum in their
 educational institutions. This step by government will not
only provide equal opportunity to students of rural area to
acquire quality education but also develop the ability to
compete with students of urban area in job market.

3. Balanced approach of education :

In addition, considering the fact that the majority of Pakistan
population resides in rural areas and access to education is
difficult for them, it seems feasible that a balanced approach
for formal and informal education system should be adopted.

4. Reacquiring captured buildings of schools :

The government should take a step to get school buildings
vacated which are occupied by feudal lords of Balochistan,
Sindh and Punjab and also must ensure that proper education
is been provided in such schools.

TEACHING WITH TECHNOLOGY :

It is important to acknowledge that students are already interested
and engaged in using technology, this creates many amazing
opportunities for schools and teachers to benefit from integrating
some forms of technology in the classroom and to make teaching
and learning more effective. Here are some of the main benefits of
using technology in the classroom.

Improves engagement

When technology is integrated into lessons, students are expected

to be more interested in the subjects they are studying. Technology
provides different opportunities to make learning more fun and
enjoyable in terms of teaching same things in new ways. For
instance, delivering teaching through gamification, taking students
on virtual field trips and using other online learning resources.
What is more, technology can encourage a more active
participation in the learning process which can be hard to achieve
through a traditional lecture environment.

Improves knowledge retention

Students who are engaged and interested in things they are

studying, are expected to have a better knowledge retention. As
mentioned before, technology can help to encourage active
participation in the classroom which also is a very important factor
for increased knowledge retention. Different forms of technology
can be used to experiment with and decide what works best for
students in terms of retaining their knowledge.

Online Groups Collaboration

The idea of group study has been improvised in the cyber world.
Now, the students don’t need to get together physically; online
collaboration platforms make things done. There, not only students
can discuss and chat, but also share documents and notes. This
practice turns out to be a great option if you are assigned a group
project.

Encourages individual learning

No one learns in the same way because of different learning styles

and different abilities. Technology provides great opportunities for
making learning more effective for everyone with different needs.
For example, students can learn at their own speed, review difficult
concepts or skip ahead if they need to. What is more, technology
can provide more opportunities for struggling or disabled students.
Access to the Internet gives students access to a broad range of
resources to conduct research in different ways, which in turn can
increase the engagement.

Encourages collaboration
Students can practice collaboration skills by getting involved in
different online activities. For instance, working on different
projects by collaborating with others on forums or by sharing
documents on their virtual learning environments. Technology can
encourage collaboration with students in the same classroom,
same school and even with other classrooms around the world.

Digital Simulations And Models

In traditional learning it is sometimes difficult for students to get a

concept. Digital simulations and models can help students not only
better understand various disciplines, but also get acquainted with
the wonders of the modern world.

Plus, technology has also proved to be a helping hand for teachers

who sometimes find it hard to explain certain things within the
boundaries of a physical classroom. Tech-savvy teachers are able
to prepare their lessons in a more strategical manner by including
different types of text, activity models, and interactive controls for
students.

Students can learn useful life skills through technology

By using technology in the classroom, both teachers and students

can develop skills essential for the 21st century. Students can gain
the skills they will need to be successful in the future. Modern
learning is about collaborating with others, solving complex
problems, critical thinking, developing different forms of
communication and leadership skills, and improving motivation
and productivity. What is more, technology can help develop many
practical skills, including creating presentations, learning to
differentiate reliable from unreliable sources on the Internet,
maintaining proper online etiquette, and writing emails. These are
very important skills that can be developed in the classroom.
Benefits for teachers

With countless online resources, technology can help improve

teaching. Teachers can use different apps or trusted online
resources to enhance the traditional ways of teaching and to keep
students more engaged. Virtual lesson plans, grading software and
online assessments can help teachers save a lot time. This
valuable time can be used for working with students who are
struggling. What is more, having virtual learning environments in
schools enhances collaboration and knowledge sharing between
teachers.

TECHNOLOGY AND ACTIVE LEARNING

What Is Active Learning?
Active learning is an instructional approach that
engages students in the material they are
learning through problem-solving
activities, writing assignments, group
discussion, reflection activities, and any
other task that promotes critical thinking
about the subject.
Active learning requires that students do
something that develops their skills, as
opposed to passive learning where
information is merely transmitted to students.

TECHNOLOGY AND ACTIVE LEARNING

  Technology supports active student learning, especially
independent inquiry.
 It allows for small groups of learners to engage in active
learning as members of a cooperative teams.
 Provide students with the opportunity to be self-directed,
active learners, who could work independently or
cooperatively in small groups. 
ACTIVE LEARNING TECHNIQUES TO TRY
1.Collaborative Virtual Classrooms
Collaborative virtual classrooms make online learning more
engaging. Aside from the usual audio-video conferencing and chat
features, virtual classrooms also provide synchronous and
asynchronous annotation, communication, and resource sharing
for facilitators and participants. It’s a definite must-have for
any eLearning platform!
2.Mind mapping / Brainstorming

These two are approaches that can also be classified under active
learning methods. Mind mapping and brainstorming are staple
methodologies for any problem-solving activity. In these sessions,
learners come up with ideas and post them on a board. As a group,
the students then select the best ones and use those to come up
with a solution. For these methods, there are available apps that
allow learners to use their own device and collaborate with others
in coming up with a mind-map or idea tree.

3. Scavenger Hunts
Here is another fun and engaging activity that involves the use of
the company knowledge base. Scavenger hunts start off with a
customer concern. The learner’s task is to use the system and find
the appropriate resource to address the issue. Not only does it
familiarize the learners with the system, but it also prepares them
to handle real-life customer scenarios.
4.Role Playing
Role playing is also another effective approach founded on active
learning methods. Role playing simulates real-life situation that
requires problem-solving skills. More importantly, it is also a
medium for gauging actual performance. Role playing activities can
include job simulations like customer interaction (facilitator plays
the customer, learner the agent) through the phones, email, chat, or
in some cases, virtual reality.

5.Data and Tools for Problem-solving

A combination of a scavenger hunt and role-playing activity, this
exercise is one of the more effective active learning strategies for
adults. The facilitator assigns a case-study (preferably taken from
common customer scenarios) to a learner. The learner, in turn,
makes sense of the data and uses the available resources to solve
the case.
6.Online Discussion Boards
Online discussion boards are also
one of many proven active
participation strategies. Online
boards are virtual boards where
students can learn collaboratively.
They post questions and answer
queries. Most of the time, there is
very little facilitator or subject
matter expert intervention involved,
with most answers usually coming
from the other participants who are
more knowledgeable on the topic.

7.Learning by Teaching
In a nutshell, learning by
teaching means that you allow
learners to prepare and teach the
lessons (or part of them) to their
fellow students. Although it may look
like the facilitator is taking a very
hands-off approach in this method, it
actually involves a very elaborate
process where the facilitator is both
moderator and subject matter expert.

Do take note that learning by teaching does not simply mean a

presentation or a lecture presented by the learners. In this
particular approach, the learners are the ones who are facilitating
the session by engaging with fellow students. The facilitator
ensures that the learning gets processed correctly and also lends a
hand to the student-hosts. Webinars and online discussion boards
are the usual media used for this methodology.
8.The Jigsaw Technique
The Jigsaw Technique is another approach that fully reaps the
benefits of active participation and collaborative learning. In this
approach, learners are given a “piece of the puzzle” that they need
to solve on their own. After this, they need to collaborate with other
learners to finally complete the puzzle.
This approach would be a good addition to role playing and using
data/tools to not only solve bigger problems but also gives
participants a glimpse of the ‘bigger picture.’ It is a good exercise
to let learners realize their role in the bigger picture by doing both
individual and collaborative work and how those are all part of a
process.
9.The ‘Flipped Classroom’
The flipped classroom is a fairly new term in the learning and
educational technology industry. Lessons are ‘flipped;’ meaning
that most of the work like reading and research are all done outside
of class. This goes in contrast to the traditional approach where
most of the class time is used for lectures, and activities are
assigned as homework.
Flipping a classroom leaves more time for the facilitator to
implement active learning methods during class time. This concept
works on making efficient use of class time with less (or no)
lectures, and more time for activities.
10.Game-based Learning
GBL is, arguably, the most fun among all the active learning
methods. Game-based learning, or gamification, is turning a certain
aspect of learning (or business) into a game. There are available
learning apps that let you do
this, but you can also create
your own! Just don’t forget
to apply the three elements
of gamification –
achievement, competition,
and fun – into the endeavour.
THE BENEFITS OF ACTIVE LEARNING  — WHY IT WORKS

When it comes to learning a

new concept or skill,
instruction is essential but
practice makes perfect.
Traditionally, lectures teach
students new concepts and
active learning helps
students master them.
Active learning works
because it engages students
in the learning process.
More specifically, active
learning in the classroom
has distinct advantages:

 Teachers and students get more one-on-one interaction —

students receive frequent and immediate feedback from
instructors during active learning activities
 Students learn through collaboration and interaction with
other students, engaging more deeply with the course content
and building invaluable social skills
 Teaching is more inclusive — students with different learning
styles get a personalized experience

HISTORY & DEFINITION OF INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

As seen in the figure the field and definition of Instructional
Technology have evolved quite a bit. The evolution was not only
impacted by the creation and use of emerging technologies but
also by a great deal of research and study of the theoretical
foundations of Instructional Design and Technology. Throughout
the last forty years the theories and practical application of the field
have merged to demonstrate that there is much more of an
understanding that Instructional Technology has evolved into its
own discipline. The popularity of the systems approach to
instructional design has and
subsequent research in the area has led to the tremendous growth
in Instructional Technology as a field in the last thirty years. The
invention and utilization of the microcomputer and ubiquity of its
use has impacted the field of Instructional Technology a great deal
in the last twenty years. The emergence of Constructivist based
learning theories has also served to shift the paradigm of
instructional models and therefore has played a role in formulating
the more comprehensive, current, definition of Instructional
Technology.

The most recent definition of Instructional Technology adopted by

the Association for Educational Communications and Technology
states that Instructional Technology is “the theory and practice of
design, development, utilization, management and evaluation of
processes and resources for learning” (Seels and Richey, 1994).
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY DOMAINS

The five domains represent a symbiotic relationship to one another.

Instructional Technology is not a linear process. It is a circular,
recurrent set of processes that continuously work together. Each
domain not only leads to the next but impacts the next.

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN MODERN CLASSROOMS

Just a couple of decades ago, teachers used very little (if
any) technology in the classroom. Today, technology is a
fundamental part of the education process. A recent study
conducted by Mid America Nazarene University reports
that students complete less than 42% of their work, both in
and out of the classroom, using paper and pencil. In
addition, the study found that 73% of teachers said that
their students use tablets or laptops every day.
The increasing prevalence of technology in the classroom
reflects a broader cultural shift. As the modern world
becomes more digitized, tech literacy is becoming
increasingly important. Teachers who use technology to
support learning in meaningful ways can help prepare
students for success in the digital era.
USES OF INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

According to the U.S. Department of Education, schools can use

educational technology to support both teaching and learning by
infusing the classroom with valuable digital tools, expanding
course offerings, increasing student engagement, and accelerating
learning. Instructional technology offers nearly endless
applications, but experts have identified three key areas where
integrating technology can have a significant impact.
Collaborative Learning
Instructional technology provides unparalleled opportunities for
collaborative learning. Today, educators have access to digital
tools that allow students to work collaboratively outside of the
classroom, discussing ideas or completing projects remotely and
eliminating constraints such as standard classroom hours or
geographic location.
Instructional technology also provides opportunities for students
to work collaboratively with teachers, discussing ideas or asking
questions outside of the physical classroom. For example, teachers
could hold digital office hours, making themselves available via
instant messaging or video chat to support students as they tackle
the day’s homework.
Virtual Classrooms and Online Learning
Virtual classrooms can be a useful tool at every level of education.
Online courses level the playing field and provide students with the
time and resources to develop the skills they need. For example,
students could listen to a lecture for a second time if they didn’t
immediately grasp the subject matter or move ahead to the next
one if they grasp a particular subject quickly. On top of this, online
learning provides access to a wider array of topics, giving students
opportunities to enrich their education by taking courses that their
schools might not offer.

Real-Time Feedback
Instructional technology provides better capabilities for gathering
or providing feedback compared with more traditional methods.
Teachers can use a variety of digital tools to gauge where their
students are in a particular lesson. For example, teachers might
conduct an online survey of students’ current understanding of a
topic to gain insight into where they should focus the next lesson.
Or they might opt for using digital education software so they can
provide immediate feedback to students on lessons and homework,
which could help keep students on track with learning objectives.
What ideas do IRI and IAI give you about using
technology for your own teaching practice?
Information and Communication Technology has become a vital
part in teaching learning experience. We can associate ICT with the
use of computers and internet but prior to the use of these
technologies we already have the interactive radio instruction.
Interactive Radio Instruction (IRI) is the use of radio to bring
curriculum and teacher training to classrooms a tremendous
resource for learning and dissemination. IRI, which only requires a
radio and an adult facilitator, reaches large numbers of teachers
and learners who are isolated by distance and poor infrastructure.
It can be used in almost any setting from formal classrooms to
community learning centers to outdoor venues.
Interactive Radio instruction (IRI)
is encompassed under the more
general term interactive Audio
Instruction (IAI), as evolving
technology has allowed different
forms of delivering this audio
programs including CD players
and MP3 players IAI, which only
requires an audio device and an
adult facilitator, reaches large
numbers of teachers and learners
who are isolated by distance and poor infrastructure. It can be used
in almost any setting, from formal classrooms to community
learning centers to outdoor venues. EDC uses Interactive Audio
Instruction to deliver education to students, train teachers and
mobilize communities in some of the hardest-to-reach places in the
World, establishing sustainable systems with consistently positive
results.

The pictures above show students learning using IRI. IRI is

the best alternative for computers and other technologies
that are not readily available in remote areas.
 Audio is a flexible medium which means that there are
many applications within an educational context. IRI
and IAI help me in my MSEP (Musical, Sinning at
 Edukasyong Pampalakas) subject. Listening to
different tempo and texture of music and dancing to
folk dances are one of the many aids of audio
learning.
I believe that there is no learning advantages and
disadvantages of audio to video Learning . It depends
upon the learners. Auditory learners rely on hearing to
process information. Sounding out words, spelling
out loud and hearing patterns of sound help them
learn.

Though IRI is not as good as computers, but it can bring a

good amount of learning to every student. Prior to the
advancement of technology, IRI had already brought a lot
of learning to the students who used it.
Working in groups or giving oral reports allows them to
talk out their ideas and to listen to the ideas of others,
engaging them in the learning process. Williams reports
that “Students may remember points made in connection
with the songs that trey would not retain from a textbook.”
This technology can improve the listening skill of the
students and will encourage participation because of the
instructions they can hear through the IRI.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN EDUCATION
From Kindergarten to college, emerging technologies are
continuing to revolutionize educational environments.
The following technologies already have been or are expected to be
integrated into classrooms:
CLOUD COMPUTING
Virtual learning environments, such as web-
based tools and applications, save schools
time, money and resources. This type of
learning has become an essential part of
communication between the student and
teacher.
Teachers share documents and other digital
activities with the students via cloud-based
tools. This allows students to access
assignments and submit papers for grading
through the Cloud.
The Cloud also allows users to store a variety
of content such as documents, applications,
music, photos and mote. This data can be
easily accessible from any device (even a
mobile device) that has the ability to connect with the Cloud.
MOBILE TECHNOLOGY
Elementary and high schools from K-12 are
seeing the potential in mobile technology
for learning. These devices are more
affordable than most laptops and use less
infrastructure for their support.
Apps used for education are the second
most downloaded content from the iTunes
App Store and have surpassed popularity
of entertainment and business apps.

GAME-BASED LEARNING
Experimentation and exploration can be
experienced through game-based learning
techniques. Game play has become an effective tool for
educational curriculum and simulating real world experiences.

MOOCS
Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCS) are
classes available to the public over the Internet
regardless of location. These classes help people
acquire new skill sets at no cost. The emphasis is
based on lecture through Internet connectivity.
This type of learning has become very popular in
the last several years and continues to grow

rapidly.

LEARNING ANALYTICS
Learning Analytics help instructors decipher educational data
trends and patterns to enhance their teaching strategies. This
allows the educator to tailor courses to their own students’ needs
through the analysis of student performance. This customized
learning experience utilizes data from online student interaction to
improve the students’ educational experience in the classroom.