Educational Technology (ET) as a Discipline - 2 Chapter Notes | Crash Course for UGC NET Education PDF Download

Information and Communication Technology in Education (Channels and Medium)

Interactive Learning Environment

In education, ICT involves a combination of hardware, software, media, and delivery systems.

Various media used for conveying education include:

• Audio-visual hardware: Devices like radio, television, slide projector, tape recorder, teaching machine, and digital video camera.
• Multimedia personal computers: Includes PCs, laptops, and notebooks.
• Application software: Tools such as word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint simulations, and speech recognition software.
• Multimedia projectors: LCD or DLP projectors used for larger group presentations.
• Network systems: Local Area Network (LAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), and Wide Area Network (WAN).
• Computer databases and data storage: Utilization of CD-ROMs, DVDs, and digital libraries for information storage and access.
• Internet and communication tools: E-mail, internet, World Wide Web (WWW), hypermedia, and hypertext resources.
• Interactive technologies: Video text, tele-text, interactive video text, Interactive Video Disk (IVD), and Interactive Remote Instruction (IRI).
• Conferencing tools: Computer-mediated conferencing, video conferencing, and audio conferencing.
• Virtual environments: Virtual classrooms and virtual reality applications.

The benefits of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education are vast and significant.

Advantages of ICT

For Students:

• Encourages a student-centered approach to learning.
• Offers increased opportunities for personal communication and collaboration with teachers.
• Enhances enthusiasm and motivation for learning.

Benefits of ICT in Education

Learning Empowered

For Students

• Easy access to quality educational material: Learners can easily access high-quality educational materials online, making learning more convenient and effective.
• Additional resources: ICT provides additional resources to learners, enhancing their understanding and knowledge.
• Independent and active learning: ICT encourages students to learn independently and actively, fostering a sense of responsibility and initiative in their learning process.
• Satisfying curiosity and creativity: ICT tools satisfy students' curiosity and creativity by providing a wide range of information and learning opportunities.
• Enhancing precision, speed, and accuracy: Students improve their precision, speed, and accuracy in handling information through the use of ICT tools.
• Skills development: Students acquire skills in using electronic devices, software, and techniques, preparing them for future technological demands.

For Teachers

• New sources of information: ICT provides teachers with new sources of information and knowledge, enriching their teaching content.
• Assistance in teaching tasks: ICT assists teachers in various teaching tasks, making their job easier and more efficient.
• Access to teaching materials: Teachers can access teaching materials and techniques through audio-visual resources and electronic media, enhancing their teaching methods.
• Relief through self-learning: ICT offers relief to teachers as students engage in self-learning using various ICT resources, such as programmed learning materials and computers.

Disadvantages of ICT

• Lack of facilities and infrastructure: Many schools do not have the necessary facilities and infrastructure for ICT implementation due to financial constraints.
• Overlooking benefits: Some institutional heads and teachers overlook the potential benefits of ICT in education.
• Fear of losing control: Teachers may fear losing control over the teaching and learning processes with the introduction of ICT.
• Preference for traditional methods: Some teachers prefer traditional teaching methods over interactive ICT models, hindering the adoption of new technologies.

Instructional Technology

Empowered Learning

Instructional Technology plays a crucial role in education by assisting both teachers and learners in the process of self-learning or auto-instruction. It involves the careful selection of media, methods, and materials to achieve specific teaching and learning objectives.

Definition of Instructional Technology

• Instructional Technology is a subset of educational technology focused on improving the instructional process.
• The term 'instruction' refers to commands or guidance aimed at helping individuals acquire specific information, knowledge, and understanding about a particular topic, system, or process.
• It promotes learner independence by providing the necessary stimuli for effective responses during the learning process.
• Instructional Technology identifies the appropriate media, methods, and materials needed to meet instructional objectives.

Enhancement of Student Learning

• According to experts like Smalding, L Lowther & Russell, Instructional Technology involves the combination of both teacher and student knowledge in using tools and techniques to enhance student learning.

Role of ICT in Education

• Students: While students may initially be hesitant about the shift to independent or interactive learning methods, Instructional Technology aims to facilitate their learning experience by providing the right tools and resources.
• Teachers: Teachers play a vital role in implementing Instructional Technology effectively. However, many teachers may lack the necessary knowledge, skills, attitude, and interest to use ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in their teaching practices. Professional development and training are essential to equip teachers with the required competencies.
• School Leaders and Administrators: School leaders and administrative departments are also crucial in embracing ICT in education. Their willingness to adopt and support ICT initiatives can significantly impact the successful integration of technology in the learning environment.

Attendance Sheets

Educational Technology

• Handouts and Presentations
• Media/Technology (Videos, Podcasts, Computer, Software Tools)
• Graphic Organisers
• Posters
• Charts/Flip Charts
• Instructional Guides
• Checklists and Case Studies
• Quizzes
• Pictures, Graphs, Bulletin Boards, Diagrams
• Models, Slides

Advantages of Instructional Technology

• Instructional technology aids students in better comprehending their concepts and relationships.
• It encourages the application of knowledge and skills.
• It sparks learners' interest.
• It engages students with pertinent content (visual, textual, audio, etc.).
• It enhances students' attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction.

Limitations of Instructional Technology

• The implementation of technology often requires skills, knowledge, coordination, management, and organisational expertise, which many educational systems find challenging to provide.
• Technology can be costly, partly due to the high level of expertise needed for its implementation.
• The hardware and software are not yet at the required level of perfection.
• Advanced technology can replace human roles with machines.

Applications of Educational Technology in the Education System

• Educational Technology can be utilised in the education system in various ways:

Formal Education

• Formal education is mainly a full-time institutional activity that is consistent and subject-oriented within a hierarchical framework.
• It is typically pursued for certificates, degrees, or diplomas.

Technical and Professional Training

Modern Learning

• Full-Time Education: The system is based on full-time education, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training and education.
• Specialized Programs: It includes a variety of specialized programs tailored to different fields and industries, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge for specific professions.
• Educational Continuum: The system runs from primary schools to universities, covering all levels of education and ensuring a continuous and consistent learning journey for students.
• Sequential Graded System: It is a sequential graded education system, meaning that students progress through different levels of education in a structured manner, building on their knowledge and skills progressively.

Applications of Educational Technology in Formal Education

Educational technology plays a crucial role in enhancing teaching and learning experiences in formal education settings. Here are some key applications:

• Technology in Teaching: Teachers currently use technology to present information, charts, and engage with students more effectively. This includes the use of visual aids and interactive tools to facilitate learning.
• Access to Technology: To succeed in today's competitive world, students need access to technology as an integral part of their education. This ensures they are equipped with the necessary digital skills and knowledge.
• Visual Technology Classrooms: Classrooms equipped with smart boards and other visual technology allow various media such as photos, documents, and videos to be projected, enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience. This technology enables students to participate actively in lessons and access online information easily.

Computer Technology

• Transformation of Education: The use of computers in education significantly transforms the processes of teaching and learning. It enables a more interactive and dynamic learning environment.
• Access to Information: Students gain access to global libraries and the vast resources available on the internet, expanding their knowledge and research capabilities.
• Organised Information Storage: Computers allow for organised storage of information, facilitating quick access and retrieval. This includes features like communication, typing, and publishing papers through word processing applications.

Internet Technology

• Abundance of Information: The internet provides an endless supply of useful information, making it an invaluable resource for students.
• Quality Education Access: Students can easily access quality education materials and resources online, receiving timely updates and information.

Technology Used in Education

• Projectors: Projectors are output devices that play a significant role in education by displaying images generated by a computer onto a screen, wall, or other surfaces. In classrooms, projectors are commonly connected to the teacher's laptop to project the screen onto the classroom whiteboard, facilitating interactive learning.
• Educational Materials Display: Projectors are used to display various educational materials such as documents, PowerPoint presentations, and educational videos. This enhances the learning experience by making information visually accessible to students.

Various Types of Technologies Used in Education

Digital Learning Environment

The evolution of technology has brought about significant changes in the way education is delivered. Various types of technologies are now being used in classrooms to enhance the learning experience for students.

SMART Technologies

• SMART technologies have gained popularity for facilitating teacher-student interactions in classrooms through computers.
• SMART boards are a key component of this technology. These interactive whiteboards enable teachers to display images from a laptop and digitally annotate them.
• SMART boards come with templates for graphs and tables, allowing teachers to create visual aids easily. They also have the capability to store lessons for future reference, making them a valuable tool in education.
• The use of SMART technologies in classrooms offers significant advantages, such as increased engagement and interactivity in the learning process.

Mimio Boards

• Mimio Boards are another form of interactive whiteboard that facilitates digital interaction with projected images.
• These boards function similarly to traditional whiteboards but offer the added benefit of allowing teachers to control computer functions from the front of the classroom.
• Teachers use a special pen with Mimio Boards, which acts like a mouse, enabling them to navigate websites, graphs, and other digital content during lessons.

Classroom PCs

• In some classrooms, students are fortunate to have access to personal computers (PCs).
• When each student has their own laptop, teachers can encourage independent research and exploration, fostering a more personalized learning experience.
• PCs also serve as efficient storage for students' work, eliminating the need to carry heavy books such as encyclopedias and dictionaries.
• This shift towards a paperless classroom not only lightens the students' load but also contributes to environmental sustainability.

SMART Classroom

• Smart classrooms represent technology-enhanced environments designed to promote effective teaching and learning.
• These classrooms integrate a variety of learning technologies, including computers, specialized software, audience response systems, assistive listening devices, networking infrastructure, and audio-visual tools.

Non-Formal Education

• Non-formal education occurs outside the traditional formal education system and is characterized by a flexible curriculum and methods tailored to the needs and interests of students.
• In non-formal education, time constraints are not a concern, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized learning experience.
• This type of education includes processes such as 'open learning' and 'distance learning,' which offer greater flexibility in terms of learning pace and location.
• Key characteristics of non-formal education include:

Uses of Educational Technology in Non-Formal Education

Dynamic Education

Non-formal education encompasses open and distance learning, which offers widespread access to education. In this mode of education, lessons can be broadcast or delivered through correspondence, enabling students to learn without the need to attend a physical school or college. The role of educational technology is vital for the efficient operation of the non-formal educational system.

Computer Assisted Learning (CAL)

• CAL focuses on providing interactive instruction through various computer-based packages.
• It can be run from a CD, floppy disk, or local network, making internet access not always necessary.
• CAL offers an advanced, interactive, and multimedia learning experience.
• It has been an integral part of many educational curriculums to this day.

Internet Technologies

• The emergence of the internet has facilitated communication between machines.
• E-mail and the world wide web are among the early developments.
• Web pages enable anyone to create content.
• Internet technology encompasses resources such as video conferencing, virtual learning environments, and e-learning technologies.

Digital Learning Resources

• This involves making word documents or PowerPoint presentations accessible online for students to download and print.

Computer Mediated Communication (CMC)

Digital Learning Tools

Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) involves any form of communication facilitated by computers.

CMC can be categorized into two types:

Synchronous CMC

• Synchronous CMC refers to real-time communication where exchanges occur instantly.
• It necessitates a structured timetable for participation.
• Examples include:
• Telephone conversations
• Video conferencing
• Web conferencing
• Audio conferencing
• Internet chat services

Asynchronous CMC

• Asynchronous CMC allows messages to be sent and received at different times, providing flexibility to participants.
• Examples include:
• Email
• Message board forums
• Print materials
• Voice mail and fax
• Videocassettes
• Broadcast video
• Radio
• CD-ROMs
• Online discussion forums

Computer Assisted Assessment (CAA)

Computer Assisted Assessment (CAA) involves using computing technologies to evaluate students' work.

• CAA includes accessing and providing feedback on teachers' lessons.
• It offers the opportunity for timely feedback on student progress.
• Setting up CAA for self-diagnosis and self-assessment is quick and efficient.
• When used effectively, CAA can provide valuable feedback regarding student performance.

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) comprises a range of teaching and learning tools designed to enhance students' learning experiences through computers and the internet.

• VLE features include:
• Curricular mapping to align educational content
• Student tracking to monitor progress
• Online support for both teachers and students
• Electronic communication for effective interaction
• Internet links for additional resources
• Users of VLEs are assigned either a teacher ID or a student ID to facilitate access and participation.

E-learning

E-learning encompasses courses, programs, or degrees delivered online.

• It is synonymous with distance learning, where learners engage interactively with educators and peers.
• E-learning can be delivered in real-time or asynchronously.
• It has emerged as a successful method for training and education across various fields.

Informal Education

Inclusive Innovation

• Informal education refers to all forms of learning that take place outside the conventional school environment.
• It is a continuous process throughout life where individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills, and knowledge from their daily experiences and environments, such as family, friends, work, play, and technology.
• Informal education is self-directed, meaning individuals choose how and what to learn.
• There are no mentors, coaches, or teachers involved in this form of education.
• This type of education is unstructured and depends on real-world experiences.
• The objectives of informal education are often more relevant and meaningful to the learner's life.

Applications of Educational Technology in Informal Education

• Technology plays an increasingly significant role in informal education.
• Individuals can pursue knowledge outside of formal programs through various means, such as:
• Listening to the radio or watching educational television programs.
• Downloading e-books or accessing educational video channels.
• Utilizing mobile applications for learning.
• Enrolling in online courses and engaging with fellow learners.
• Helpful resources include:
• wikis
• blogs
• forums
• learning and knowledge portals
• videos and podcasts
• social networks

Inclusive Education

• Inclusive education refers to a learning environment that fosters the complete personal, academic, and professional development of all learners.
• It embraces students from diverse backgrounds, including variations in race, class, color, gender, disability, sexual orientation, learning styles, and language.
• All students are encouraged to attend and engage in their local schools.

Right to Quality Education for All

Inclusive Tech Learning

• Student's Voice: Students' opinions are heard and taken seriously.
• Social Awareness: The initiative promotes social awareness and responsibility among students.
• Participation: It requires the involvement of all students, teachers, parents, and community members.
• Cultural Restructuring: The initiative helps in restructuring the culture, policies, and practices in schools to address the diversity of learners in their local area.

Applications of Educational Technology in Inclusive Education

• Prevalence of Technology: Technology is becoming more common in classrooms and has also made significant strides in the field of special education.
• Support for Disabilities: Technology can offer support for students with specific disabilities to improve their learning experience.
• iPads in Special Education: Students in special education use iPads to learn concepts such as counting and spelling.
• Visual Aids: Technology assists students with visual impairments by making text more accessible.

Alternative Input Devices

• Definition: Alternative Input Devices enable students with disabilities to use computers and other technology with greater ease.
• Examples: This includes devices such as touch screens, modified keyboards, joysticks, and on-screen keyboards.

Speech to Text Options

• Definition: Speech to Text Options offer a learning advantage for students with mobility challenges or visual impairments.
• Functionality: These options allow students to verbalize their thoughts instead of typing and to navigate the internet using their voice.
• Error Alerts: Some speech to text systems include a talk-back feature that alerts students to potential errors in their speech recognition.

Sensory Enhancers

• Individualized Learning: Children with disabilities may require different learning approaches compared to their peers.
• Alternative Learning Tools: For example, a child with language difficulties might benefit from learning new concepts through bright pictures or colors instead of traditional ABCs and numbers.
• Technology Examples: This category includes tools such as voice analyzers and speech synthesizers that enhance sensory input and learning.

Assistive Technologies for People with Visual Impairments

Accessible Technology

Screen readers are tools that turn written text on a screen into spoken words. They are particularly useful for students who are blind or have trouble seeing the screen, as they provide an audio way to access information.

Examples of Assistive Technologies

• iPads
• Touch screens
• Computers
• Scanners
• Wands and joysticks
• Sip and puff systems
• Smart Boards
• Digital books or eBooks
• Voice recognition software
• Braille embossers and refreshable Braille displays
• Screen magnifiers
• Text To Speech (TTS)
• Alternative keyboards
• Light signals