Topic 6 ICT and learning

Topic 6 ICT and learning

1. The Desktop Environment

   • GUI (graphical user interface): A desktop is an example of a GUI.
   • DTE (Desktop Environment): A DTE can be customised by changing icon sizes, adjust sizes
   • Files and folders: Saved data is usually referred to as a file. A file may contain text, numbers, an image, a video or sound. It is possible to move a file from one folder to another, or even move a representation of it around on the desktop. Files and folders can be deleted, copied or renamed.
   • Shortcuts: Shortcuts allow a complex series of actions to be carried by doing a mouse click or pressing a key and/ or selection ok keys. Many shortcuts are available, but they are different on the system you are using e.g. Microsoft word, internet. Examples of shortcuts(depending on operating system):
   • Print settings: A menu of options often offered when something is printed. Options may include: • pages to print, all pages to print or current page • number of copies, • Which printer to use
   • Password and protection: If you are leaving your computer logged in for any reason, it is important to make sure your work is secure and that no one other then you can access your work area. You will need a password to lock it again.

2. Keywords

   • IWB (interactive white board): Is a large white screen which uses a special pen like a mouse pointer. Helps make learning more interactive.
   • CAL (computer assisted learning): A way to learn a skill using a computer or interactive software on a DVD/ CD by use of internet. Using CAL can be more enjoyable.
   • VLE (virtual learning environment): a software system that uses the internet to support teaching and learning. It provides a set of tools that allows teachers to set up learning material. Feedback can be given to teach particular topics and pupils can work at their own pace.
   • Internet: The internet can help with research, discussions groups can be formed on the internet through forums. Email can provide contact with pupils in other schools.
   • Application Software: • DTP software can help pupil’s present work. E.g leaflets and brochures. • Spreadsheets can be used to create charts and organise numerical data. • Databases can be used to store, search, sort data and produce reports.
   • Distance learning: Means studying for a qualification from home, using online learning, web pages and then taking an exam online.
   • Advantages You can learn anytime, anywhere Learning can be done at own pace There are often online chat rooms and Discussion forums where you can discuss ideas/problems Wide range of learning courses available Disadvantages No tutor to discuss problems Students feel isolated There may be a lack of motivation if student can choose the frequency and times when learning takes place
   • Online Tutorials: The internet provides many online tutorials e.g. BBC bite size. They may be interactive and animated which allows pupils to see what happens in a different situation.
   • Advantages Readily available No teacher is required Questions answered quickly On screen demonstrations Disadvantages No teacher to ask questions Cannot skip bits you already know May proceed at a steady speed which doesn’t suit you
   • Online assessment: Associated with online and distance learning. Exams can be taken online. Questions on screen, answer via mouse and keyboard. Marks may immediately available.
   • Advantages Tests can be taken anytime Reduce wastage of paper etc. Results can be instant or received very quickly Records of marks and then statistics based on assessment can be created Disadvantages Impersonal way of testing Expensive and difficult to set questions Difficult to mark subjective answers e.g. essays Time for organisation and computer space for large group
   • VLE (virtual learning environment): a software system that uses the internet to support teaching and learning. It provides a set of tools that allows teachers to set up learning material. Feedback can be given to teach particular topics and pupils can work at their own pace.
   • Advantages Learning takes place anytime Teacher does need to be present Multimedia – text, graphics, audio other visual stimuli Disadvantages Time- for answers to arrive Out of date- material Training- needed to set up VLE Failure of equipment-pupil won’t have lesson

3. Support

   • • ICT can help pupils with their learning. Software has been developed to help with: • Learning difficulties to improve reading or writing skills • Basic mathematics skills • Accessing a computer, if the pupil has a visual impairment • Typing by using predictive text
   • Desktop environments- can be customised as shown in vodcast for those with visual impairments
   • Braille Keyboards-are input devices for those that cannot see the keyboard, though most people can be trained to become touch typists. A Braille keyboard has raised dots for the character on key.
   • Voice recognition software- People who have difficulty typing can use a microphone as an input device to issue commands to the computer or to use an application available. • Specialist software- coverts users voice to words • Predictive software- offers choices or words or phrases that can be selected to increase speed of input
   • Text-to-voice software • Device works by users touching them • Position where device is touched is sensed and used as data • Menu displayed • Users select option by touching screen
   • Concept keyboards- touch sensitive boards that have special overlays that help a handicapped person to input data. Can also be used by young people with learning difficulties Other uses of touch screens: • Museums, exhibits etc. • Banks, customer services offered • Doctors surgery, patient to register attendance • Restaurants or bars, staff use touch screens to select items, meals etc.