Educational Technology 2: Lesson 9: Computer as Information and Communication Technology

In educational technology course 1 the role of computer in education 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 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

Educators saw the amplification of learning along computer literacy through computer technology. Soon, CAI or Computer assisted instruction was introduced. Through the dynamic evolving pace of innovation in today’s Information Age, computer technology in education transformed into an educative information and communication technology (ICT) in education. Close to the turn of the 21st century, however, such a distinction merged owing to the advent of microprocessor, also known as the personal computer (PC). This Personal Computer (PC) functions as an instructional and educational communication media that helps to enrich and enhance the teaching-learning process. Normally, there are 10 programs installed in an ordinary modern PC and these are Microsoft Office, Power-point, Excel, Internet Explorer, Yahoo or Google, Adobe Reader, MSN, Windows media player, Cyberlink Power and GameHouse.

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

THE PERSONAL COMPUTER (PC) AS ICT

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

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

On the other hand, educational communication media comprise the media communication to audiences including learners using the print, film radio, and television or satellite means of communication. For example, distance learning were implemented using correspondence, radio, television or the computer satellite system

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

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