ICT for Enriching Teaching and Learning

Preface

Several studies reveal the potential benefits of ICT for improving the quality of Education. It gives a sense of empowerment to the learner as they enhance their creative processes through self learning and critical evaluation of their skills. The constructivist perspective in using ICT’s in education has reshaped the classroom environment by bringing innovation in teaching learning process. In this present informational era, globalization & liberalization are consummated when the knowledge and skills of every professional are continuously updated. Thus, impressive strides are taken towards integrating ICT in education as it is acknowledged as world leader in the knowledge industry.

Today’s challenge is not about where to find knowledge but it is about how to handle the vast amount of information which is readily available at just a mouse click. The focus is on how to analyze, make decisions and master the knowledge while working collaboratively to complete the complex tasks. Sharing knowledge, ideas and views has become inevitable through the networks which are connecting people, institutes as well as organizations. Lifelong learning has become functional through the advancement in the field of online learning and e- learning. Thus, the role of the teacher is more of a facilitator, providing the opportunities to the learner to develop their full potential.

Self-paced learning, drill and practice, programmed learning assist the learner as they take the abilities, levels and individual differences into consideration. Web 2.0 technologies have made computer applications more user-friendly and interactive. SMART Boards have become the essential part of a learner-centered classroom. OER’s have skyrocketed into the educational arena. Various teacher friendly classroom software applications have replaced the traditional paper pencil, chalk and board teaching and evaluation techniques. Virtual classroom have eliminated the constraints such as time and space from educational context.

The present book intends to throw light on the various aspects of Information Communication technology which has become the essential part of educational system. It is a handbook for all the teacher educators as well as the to-be teacher’s, providing them the information related to ICT and its usage in enriching the classroom. It provides a brief overview of the key concepts in the field of ICT in education. Authors kept in mind the prescribed curriculum while organizing the material by exploring the latest updated concepts in each area. Research articles, books from various authors, internet resources and websites were reviewed and utilized in writing this book. The authors acknowledge the help they received, in any form, while compiling this book from the above mentioned.

The authors sincerely thank all those who supported in the successful completion of this book. Special thanks to the publisher, Sri Suresh Chandra Sharma, Neelkamal Publications Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi-Hyderabad, for his motivation and constant support in bringing out this book. Our special thanks to the editor of this book for her laborious effort to make this book useful to the students. The authors look forward for suggestions and intellectual contributions to enhance the quality of this book

– Authors