Tuesday 2 August 2011

Making Connection between my ESE And the Masterplans for ICT in Education

From my observation, it is evident that my school was sufficiently equipped with ICT tools such as PCs and projectors in every classroom and the computer labs have enough computers for every pupil in a class. It was also clear that most of the pupils were competent in completing their ICT-based projects, using word processors or presentation slides. Our teachers were also motivated to integrate ICT into the core curriculum through the use of specialised programmes, videos, or real-time collaboration. It was impressive to note that the school has embarked on e-learning initiatives to allow pupils to try to learn on their own. For pupils without internet access at home, the school have also given them access to the computer labs to complete their e-learning.

It is interesting, however, to note that the school does not have complete Wi-Fi coverage yet. Although I do not feel that Wi-Fi connection is integral to pupils' learning in a primary school setting, it does afford convenience for teachers to coordinate administrative tasks, as well as to use our own ICT equipment to conduct ICT-based lessons promptly.

4 comments:

  1. I agree with you about the Wi-Fi connection. Some teachers might want to use their own laptops to conduct lessons or do admin work (especially those who aren't given a school laptop). Wi-Fi connection does make it more convenient in schools.

    ReplyDelete
  2. how are the teachers in your school motivated to apply ICT in the curriculum?

    ReplyDelete
  3. @Bernard Yes. Wi-Fi is becoming integral to many things related to ICT in our lives. I am happy to find out that the primary school where I did my contract teaching will be Wi-Fi enabled by the end of this year. However, there is also a note of concern that pupils and teachers may abuse this newfound privilege.

    @国容 Our school has a few dedicated teachers who are in charge of sharing and training other colleagues once every semester. The principals are also very involved in the development of curriculum with regards to integrating ICT to make learning more efficient for pupils. Admittedly, self-motivation to apply ICT is not easy due to the biggest culprit called "Workload/Markings". I feel that in order for teachers, young and old, to truly embrace ICT and integrate into the curriculum is to streamline every teacher's workload and focus solely on the curriculum (which is the foundation!) and get it right before pursuing other fringe achievements/awards.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I do face the same problem as well. I'm thinking, is ICT solely dependent on wifi? Is there a need for ICT in such a case, or use it but on the offline mode?

    ReplyDelete