ICT is the acronym for Information and Communication Technology. It is defined according to Van Daamme (2003) as combination of computer, video and networks and also services which are based on them. Moreover, Basset (2000), Abia (2004) and UNESCO (2004) identified ICT tolls to include technologies such as desktop, laptop, internet facilities, computer game console, DVD player and recorder, peripherals and connections to the internet that are intended to fulfill information processing and communication functions.
In the learning processes, therefore, being able to effectively use ICT tools should be high on the list of what students at all levels of out education should know while teacher should use it in any instructional transaction. Olokoba et al (2014) identifies two broad ways in which Information and Communication Technology can be effectively used in education. These are: ICT for Education and ICT in Education.
ICT for education refers to the development of Information and Communication Technology specifically for teaching/learning purposes. These include technological teaching aids use by teachers such as computer, software dictionary, projector among others while ICT in education involves the technology in the teaching process, more specifically often for the training of teachers in the use of technology for teaching.
Although this study focus on students’ academic performance as a result of ICT influence, it is imperative to say that without teaching and learning there cannot be attempt to measure performance. The teacher, therefore, plays a significant role in this regard. On the other hand, the teacher training institutes not only provide avenue for teachers to be well equipped for future challenges in educational sector but also adopted ICT as a method of teaching as well as offering ICT related academic programmes. In Nigeria, different educational institutions have adopted ICT as a method of teaching. Some state governments also encourage the use of ICT tools to facilitate learning in secondary schools by incorporating ICT related tools such as “Opon Imo” (E-learning tablets), which is a self-study aid and a robust electronic device with uniform learning content schools in Osun state.
It is therefore opined that students who use ICTs gain deeper understanding of complex topics and concepts and are more likely to recall information and use it to solve problems outside the classroom (Apple computer 2002). In addition, students extend and deepen their knowledge, investigation and inquiring according to their needs and interest when access to information is available on multiple levels. (CEO forum on education and technology, 2001). Hence it is time to practically assess the students accessibility to ICT and its influence on the performance of students.
Generally, it should be noted at this juncture that there appears to be three main approaches to assess and enhance students performance through ICT (UNESCO, 2004).
First, integrated approach refers to planning the use of ICT within the subject to enhance particular concepts and skills and improve students’ performance. It involves selecting the appropriate ICT tools and then integrating their use in relevant classroom lessons often as teaching aid.
Second enhancement approach refers to planning the use of an ICT tools which will enhance the existing topic through some aspect of the lessons and tasks. The teacher, for example, can play a significant role to enhance students performance by helping students visualize problems, using an electronic white board, projector, computer software among others during class discussion and lesson.
Third, complementary approach: This refers to using an ICT tools to empower the students’ learning. For example enabling them to improve their class work by taking notes on the computer, or by sending homework by email to the teacher from home or by processing their homework.
EDITOR'S SOURCE: Mass Communication Project Topics
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