Topic 6- Learning with ICT

Topic 6- Learning with ICT

1. Ways to learn with ICT

   • Interactive Whiteboards (IWB)
     • Large white screens are connected to a computer screen. A special pen is used like a mouse pointer. These help make learning interactive.
   • Computer Assisted Learning (CAL)
     • A way to learn using a computer and interactive software on CD or DVD, or by using the internet. CAL programs can be more enjoyable than traditional methods,
   • Internet
     • The internet can help with research. A discussion group can be helpful in getting ideas. Email can provide contact with pupils in other schools.
   • Application Software
     • Desktop publishing (DTP) software can help with the presentation of coursework or other tasks.
   • Distance Learning
     • Online Assessment
       • Advantages
         • Tests can be taken at any time.
         • Reduced wastage of paper and other resources.
         • Results are available immediately or very quickly.
         • Records or mistakes marks given and time taken allow detailed statistics to be produced.
       • Disadvantages
         • It is an impersonal way of testing.
         • It is expensive and difficult to set the questions.
         • Very hard to mark subjective answers such as essays.
         • Takes a lot of organisation and may need a lot of computers for a large class.
       • Often associated with distance learning or online tutorials. Questions are presented on screen and the pupil answers using the keyboard or mouse. The marks may be immediately available.
     • Online Tutorials
       • Advantages
         • They are readily available.
         • No teacher is required.
         • Questions can be quickly answered.
         • On-screen demonstrations can be given.
       • Disadvantages
         • You cannot ask teachers questions so easily.
         • You cannot usually skip bits you already know.
         • They often proceed at a steady pace which might not suit you.
       • The internet provides many online tutorials which may be animated and interactive. BBC bitesize is a website that provides a resource for pupils studying for GCSE's
     • Virtual Learning Environment
       • Advantages
         • Learning can take place at anytime.
         • A teacher does not need to be present.
         • A variety of text, graphics, audio and visual sources can be used.
       • Disadvantages
         • Answers to questions may take a long time to arrive.
         • Material may become out of date.
         • Training to use the VLE could use u valuable learning time.
         • Equipment can fail leaving the pupil without a lesson.
       • Can offer a complete educational course online. It provides a set of tools that allows a teacher to set up learning material, links and feedback to teach a particular topic. Working at a computer, a pupil is able to proceed through a series of lessons at their own pace.
     • Advantages
       • You can learn from anywhere.
       • Learning can be done in your own time and at your own speed.
       • There are often online chat rooms where others who are learning the same subject can exchange ideas or discuss problems.
       • There is a wide range of learning courses available .
       • Makes education more accessible.
     • Disadvantages
       • Problems can not easily be solved because there is no tutor to discuss them with.
       • Students may feel isolated.
       • There may be a lack of motivation if the student can select the frequency and times when learning takes place.
       • Students could cheat.
       • Independent work (not working with others.)