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UNIT-II
ICT IN EDUCATION

What is Computer?
Computer is known as an electronic brain. In the words of A.S. Hornby, “A
computer is an electronic device which stores information on discs or magnetic tape,
analyses it and produces information as required from the data on the tape etc.” computer
is essentially a device for storing large amounts of information and handling the
information in specified ways in extremely short periods of time.”

In the words of Sampath, “A computer is a power-driven machine equipped with

keywords, electronic circuit and recording devices for the high speed performance of
mathematical operations.”

In simple words a computer is a ‘glorified calculator’. It has in addition a capacity

for storing or ‘memorizing’ a large amount of information and producing or retrieving
any of them when called for. The computer is a base loaded with information. Information
and problems are translated in computer language so that it can understand. The
procedure and formulae necessary to process the information are also fed into the
computer. When related information is given to it, it interacts and manipulates the
information, translates answer and types it out on a typewriter. The data is coded in
language understandable by the computers and a variety of computer languages to suit
different purposes (like BASIC, COBOL, LOGO, FORTRAN etc.) have been evolved.
Computer is training is emphasized in our New Education Policy, and in Eight Five Year
Plan (1992-97).

a) Computers in Education:

The use of computer in education is in its infancy. However, the computer is

bringing some exciting innovations to education. Computers are helping the teachers in
the following areas:

1. Classification of pupils: Computers help in classification of children

according to their abilities and evaluating their performance.

2. Preparing time-table: Computer helps in preparing time-table schedules etc.

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3. Allocation of learning resources: Computers allocate learning resources and

materials according to individual needs and interests.

4. Maintenance of progress cards: Computers maintain progress cards and

preserve them efficiently and confidentially.

5. Easy access: Computers provide easy access to file of information for

reference and guidance.

6. Direct interaction: Computers provide direct interaction between student

and the subject-matter to be analyzed.

7. Tutorial and dialogue: Computers can play effectively the role of tutor. It
helps the teacher in engaging students in tutorial work. There is tutorial interaction and
dialogue.

8. Immediate feedback: Computer helps the teacher in providing immediate

feedback to student for better interaction and motivation.

9. Problem-solving and creativity: Computers can be used to develop problem-

solving ability and creativity among the students.

10. Laboratory and practical work: Computers can supplement laboratory and
practical work especially in science subject.

11. Training through simulated techniques: The computer can be used to give
training to the students through simulated and gaining techniques.

12. Education to handicapped: Computers can be used in providing education to

the handicapped like deaf and dumb.

13. Repetition: A lesson, if not understood once can be repeated number of times
and thoroughly understood by even an average student. Computer can work according to
the tune of the student.

14. Guidance: Computer helps the teacher in providing information/data for

guidance and reference.

Computer can be an excellent teacher. It can impart knowledge without losing

temper and getting impatient. It is enjoyable and can have audio-visual facilities.
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b) Types of Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) System:

There are three types of activities currently being pursued through the computer-
assisted instruction system in the advance countries:

1. Logo: This system was developed by Furzier and Papart at MIT. Logo is a
simple programming language which can be taught to children. The
programme provides instructions which can be used, for example, to produce
picture on an oscilloscope or make a little mechanical robot. The children who
learn Logo make up their own programmes to draw flowers or faces or
generate designs on the screen. The computer is used in more or less ad lib
way, often the children suggesting their own tasks and then writing
appropriate programmes. The supposed value of the programming activity is
that logo problems can be described in terms of procedures, a procedure being
a set of instructions like a cooking recipe.
2. Simulation and gaming: Simulations are condensed learning exercise
specifically designed to represent vital real life activities by providing learners
with the essential elements of real life situations without its hazards, costs or
time constraints. Simulations are realistic imitations. Simulations are
frequently planned in the form of competitive games to increase motivation
and interest. Organized social simulation is called gaming, as for example,
historical games. Now simulation is used in teaching, various subjects as well
as in areas like teaching training. Role playing is also a type of simulation,
ranging from simple make believe to play acting and drama.
3. Control learning: It includes both drill and practice and interactive tutorial
types of instruction. It can involve the use of interactive adaptive strategies.

Characteristics of Computer-Assisted Instruction:

1. Two way interaction: Computer-assisted instruction is an instructional

technical based on the two way interaction of a learner and a computer with the objective
of human learning and retention.

2. Stored instructional programme: Computer-assisted instruction is an

instructional technique in which the computer must actually instruct the student, and the
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computer contains a stored instructional programme designed to inform, guide and test
the student until a profile level of efficiency is retained.

3. Students’ responses: Computer-assisted instruction is an instructional

technique in which the computer is based:

I. To control the presentation of stimulation to a student.

II. To accept and evaluate the student’s responses, and

III. To present further stimuli based on that interaction calculated to shape

student responses in the desired manner. The student uses a terminal
directed by a computer that may be in the same room or some distance
away. The terminal is generally equipped with information display and the
student response devices.

4. Individualized instruction: Computer-assisted instruction is an instructional

technique using the computer which follows for individual, individually paced and
individualized instruction, since the computer’s behavior is dependent upon the
responses of the student.

Stolurow includes

(i) Problem-solving,

(ii) Drill and practice,

(iii) Inquiry,

(iv) Simulation and gaming. Super and added

(v) Dialogue system.

Rogers suggested dialogue system and perhaps drill and practice, would qualify as
computer-assisted instruction.

Role of Teacher in Computer-Assisted Instruction:

The introduction of computer-assisted instruction in general education in

advanced countries has created a fear in the teacher community that its use in teaching-
learning will take the place of the teacher and to some extent eliminate teachers from
the teaching scene. As a matter of fact, computer-assisted instruction may become a
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powerful tool for the teacher in the instructional process. It is not to exclude the teacher
from the classroom. Machines mean relief from the more mechanical aspects of the
teacher’s work. Teachers need no longer be ‘talking books’ (delivering lectures) or
‘paper correcting automations’. They can work in areas like:

1. Evaluation,

2. Planning,

3. Guidance,

4. Human relations.

The system of computer-assisted instruction provides direct interaction with the

students individually and with the teacher. Human teachers cannot be eliminated from
the teaching-learning process. Lakhs of teachers working in schools and colleges
constitute a large educational resource.

In computer-assisted instruction the teacher has the chance to use the tools which
will enhance his individual satisfaction and increase his efficiency. Computer-assisted
instruction will prove to be a powerful device in the sense that it can computer
accurately and rapidly huge data. It can elaborate graphs and drawing and can perform
sophisticated retrieval of information from large data bank.

Computer-assisted instruction is compatible with live teaching. The two can be

used side by side. Computer-aided instruction is a flexible system of instruction. It can
evaluate the performance of individual students. The teacher can devote his time to
more creative work.

Conclusion: Nothing can replace a teacher. The human teacher is more versatile
and adaptable than the most effective auto-instructional device and these
characteristics will always be required in the classroom because students need personal
intellectual stimulation.

1.
Use of Computer-Assisted Instruction in areas of Education: (Educational
Implications)

The computer-assisted instruction can be used in the following areas of

educational system:
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1. Teaching and instruction: A computer-assisted instruction can be used for

teaching and instruction purpose in the field of education. The use of computer-assisted
instruction has been successfully made in mathematics, science, language, business
management, air force and medical profession etc. As it has been pointed out earlier, from
a teaching point of view a computer is a device for presenting a programme. It is the
programme that does the instruction. If a computer is to handle the instruction of a wide
range of students in, say elementary English or Science, the programme it presents must
contain a wide range of appropriately sequenced information. We should ensure that the
frames submitted to the student are actually satisfactory to him.

Thus the computer-assisted instruction is highly individualized instructional

device. The students having varied type of entering behaviour can learn the same content
through different forms of instructional material. A computer takes decision about the
instruction material on the basis of learner’s entering behaviour.

2. Drill and practice: Computer-assisted instruction is used for drill and

practice problems in mathematics, science and languages etc. In drill and practice
branching type of remedial programme is also provided for those learners who are in
need of such remedial teaching. The computer has been very effective substitute for a
teacher in this exercise.

3. Simulation: Computers are used to simulate real life experience in medical

science, biological science, languages, business management etc. to enhance the efficiency
of the workers and improve the quality performance. Simulated conditions are shown on
the computer screen such at the working of the circulatory system of the human body or
the effect of interactions on the operation of a system or other models from biology,
mathematics or eco system. Such simulations have tremendous potentials for
instructional purposes, simulations are also planned as competitive games to motivate
and increase the interest of the learners.

4. Tutorial and dialogue: The subject-matter is literally taught by the

computer programme. Explanations are given orally through audio-tape and needed
visuals presented in cathode-ray tube as in television. The student responds on a
typewriter key-board or by pointing on the screen with a light pen. The computer reacts
to student’s response by ‘talking’ to him. Student makes further response. The Talking
Typewriter developed in 1966 by O.K. Moore also serves a similar purpose.
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5. Data processing for research: A computer is used in research institutes or

universities for analyzing the data for obtaining the results and verifying the research
hypotheses. In Indian condition a computer is now being used most frequently in
analyzing the research data. It is very economically, speedy and accurate device for this
purpose and has made this difficult task simpler. A large sample may be selected because
huge data can be easily analyzed by the use of computer services.

6. Educational guidance and counseling: Now computer is used in guidance

and counseling services. The students are diagnosed for educational guidance, their
weaknesses are identified and remedial instructions are provided for them by a
computer. It also functions, as we have already stated, as tutorial teaching and
instruction.

7. Vocational guidance: Vocational guidance is also given by the computer.

Computers store complete cumulative records, counselor’s records, file and details about
vocational interest, aptitude and information and psychological test results can be stored
in the computer and used as when needed. Computer can match them against
employment needs and potentialities.

8. Examination system: teaching and testing are the two major tasks of
educational processes. The computer-assisted instructions are used for both the
purposes. To prepare an examination result is very time consuming process. The
computer has made this task speedy, accurate and objective. In Indian conditions, the
computer services are employed in preparing examination results of universities, State
Board of School Education and other competitive examinations.

9. Laboratory computing device: Computer-assisted instruction can be used

as a laboratory computing device. It is one of the most frequently used applications. A
single terminal, teletype or electric typewriter is installed in the classroom with a direct
access to an externally placed computer. Students are encouraged to develop their own
computer programmes relating to their regular classroom assignments. Talented and
over-achieving students can be encouraged to develop their own software or help the
peer group in preparing software to suit the different abilities of the learners.

c) Educational Implications of Internet & E-Learning:

Internet
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Internet helps the students with the learning process as it helps to simplify the knowledge. Also,
it helps to visualize what is being taught by the teachers in school. If you want to prepare for
final exams, you can access Video Tutorials and other resources online through the Internet.
Indeed, it is often observed that younger generations are unable to talk about the Internet as a
discrete entity. Instead, online practices have been part of young people’s lives since birth and,
much like oxygen, water, or electricity, are assumed to be a basic condition of modern life. As
Donald Tapscott (2009, 20) put it, “to them, technology is like the air.” Thus, in many ways,
talking about the Internet and education simply means talking about contemporary education.
The Internet is already an integral element of education in (over)developed nations, and we can
be certain that its worldwide educational significance will continue to increase throughout this
decade.

That said, the educational impact of the Internet is not straightforward. At a rudimentary level,
it is important to remember that well over half the world’s population has no direct experience
of using the Internet at all. While this is likely to change with the global expansion of mobile
telephony, the issue of unequal access to the most enabling and empowering forms of Internet
use remains a major concern. Moreover—as the continued dominance of traditional forms of
classroom instruction and paper-and-pencil examinations suggest—the educational changes
being experienced in the Internet age are complex and often compromised. In addressing the
topic of “the Internet and education” we therefore need to proceed with caution. As such, this
chapter will consider the following questions:

• What are the potential implications of the Internet for education and learning?
• What dominant forms of Internet-based education have emerged over the past 20 years?
• How does the educational potential of the Internet relate to the realities of its use?
• Most importantly, how should we understand the potential gains and losses of what is
being advanced.

For many commentators, the Internet has always been an inherently educational tool. Indeed,
many people would argue that the main characteristics of the Internet align closely with the
core concerns of education. For instance, both the Internet and education are concerned with
information exchange, communication, and the creation of knowledge.

E-Learning:

What is ‘E-learning’?
Definition: A formalized teaching and learning process but with the assistance of electronic
resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be situated in or out of the classrooms,
the utilization of PCs and the Internet shapes a significant part of E-learning.
E-learning meaning can also be named as an organization-empowered transfer of skills and
knowledge, and the conveyance of education is made to countless beneficiaries at the
equivalent or different times. Prior, the importance of e-learning in education was not
acknowledged sincerely as it was accepted that this framework came up short of the human
component expected in learning.
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However, with the quick advancement in innovation and the progression in learning
frameworks, it is presently embraced by the majority. The introduction of PCs was the basis of
this upset and with the progression of time, as we get snared to smartphones, tablets, and so
on, these gadgets currently have a significant place in the classrooms for learning.
Books are steadily getting replaced by electronic educational materials like optical disks or pen
drives. Knowledge can also be shared through the Internet, which is accessible day in and day
out, anywhere, whenever.
Today people first search for their queries on the internet rather than looking for books or
asking someone. Hence, this has led to the Importance of E-Learning in Education.
There are interactive classes and courses on different topics or programs or degrees that are
delivered completely on the net.
Emails live lectures, and video conferencing are some of the mediums that enable the
participants to give their views on a particular topic and then discuss them further.
Through video conferencing or live chat, there is a great possibility of discussing different
subjects. Static pages like course materials printed for the benefit of all the participants are also
made available.

Importance of e-learning:

1. E-learning has been introduced to empower learners to get basic schooling and enhance
skills. Also, they can obtain a degree certificate, without actually attending school or
university or any other institution.
2. For tutors, it is a great source of earning, wherein they can teach from anywhere in their
preferred time.
3. Applying e-learning to all levels of schooling helped to ensure students grasp the
lessons adequately at a faster pace.
4. According to psychology, the audio-visual method of teaching leads to a disciplined
learning environment. There are effective tutor and student engagements.
5. One of the importance of e-learning in education is that tutors and participants both can
develop advanced learning skills. For example, creating and selling eBooks is one such
advancement.
6. E-learning has worked towards bringing learners, tutors, experts, practitioners, and
other interest groups to one place. Thus, there is a good practice of knowledge sharing
followed through different online platforms. This is important in current times as
competition is rising and the world is also growing. Hence, quick information helps in
the better growth of an individual.

Educational Implications of E-Learning:

An analytical look at the benefits of online learning will make us consider how today teachers,
students, and institutes wants to get relevant and easily accessible content. This is fulfilled with
the online mode of learning as the students can learn at their comfort and requirement. Also,
teachers can teach with much more flexibility. The following are the advantages of e-learning
that you must not miss.

1. Online Learning can accommodate everyone’s needs.

2. Classes can be taken from any place and at the time that students or tutors prefer.
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3. It offers access to exclusive, prolific, and updated content and accessibility is open,
secure, and uninterrupted.
4. E-Learning lets you be in sync with modern learners and updated with the current trends
5. It ensures quick delivery of lessons. Traditional classrooms involve some kind of delay.
Whereas, whereas eLearning provides expeditious and exclusive delivery of lessons.
There is no procrastinator in eLearning. It is a quick way of learning.
6. The scalability of learning, content, and duration that is taken can be reasonably
measured. It is beneficial to those who feel nervous and disconnected in groups. It helps
one learn without having to give up the comforts of the environment. You are at ease
with Consistency of exposure, inputs, results, and coordination is highly ranked in E-
Learning as it allows teachers a higher degree of coverage to deliver the content
regularly. This ensures consistency in learning.
7. The method is made available at much-reduced costs. The importance of E-Learning
education is that it is quick and does not require much cost. The long training period,
infrastructure, stationery, travel expenses, etc. is reduced.
8. The effectiveness of the transferred or imparted knowledge and learning is high and
powerful. It makes information easy to grasp and absorb. The Audio-Visuals help in
remembering knowledge for a longer time. Also, the courses which tutors prepare are
well-planned.
9. Mobility assured is a very comfortable and affordable option. Taking revision and
getting hands-on with different courses is not that simple in traditional classes. Contrary
to that, missed lessons can always be taken again online. This makes it easier for tutors
to impart the right information.
10. It promotes a self-paced learning process.
11. Through e-learning, students can develop a self-paced training schedule. Also, for
tutors, things become quite easy. People working 9 to 7 or those who simply don’t have
the necessary time to conduct physical classes are no longer left behind.
12. They can take online sessions after work, in the evening, on the weekends, or whenever
they are free.
13. All they need is a proper internet facility, computer or laptop, microphones, and
headphones. E-Learning has a vast amount of use and also helps students in education.
14. Tutors have a variety of options to teach such as you can create recorded lessons,
conducting short webinars, and selling courses with yearly packages. Hence, there are
numerous possibilities for earning a side income or even a regular income.