Computer as Information and Communication Technology

In the Educational Technology Course 1 the role of the computer is education was well discussed. It was pointed out that that the advent of that computer is recognized as the third revolution in education. The first was the invention of the printing press; the second, the introduction of libraries; and the third, the invention of the computer, especially so with advert of the microcomputer in 1975. Thus emerged computer technology in education.

Through computer technology, educators saw the amplification of learning along computer literacy. Much like reading, the modern student can now interact with computer messages; even respond to questions or to computer commands. Again like writing, the learner can form messages using computer language or program

Soon computer-assisted instructed (CAI) was introduced using the principle of individualized learning through a positive climate that includes realism and appeal with drill exercises that uses color, music and animation. The novelty of CAI has not waned to this day especially in the basic education level as this is offered by computer-equipped private schools. But the evolving pace of innovation in today’s Information Age is so dynamic that within the first decade of the 21^st century, computer technology in education has matured to transform into an educative information and communication technology (ICT) in education.

The Personal Computer (PC) as ICT

Until the nineties, it was still possible to distinguish between instructional media and the educational communication media.

Instructional media consist of audio-visual aids that served to enhance and enrich the teaching-learning process. Examples are the blackboard, photo, film and video.

On the other hand, educational communication media comprise the media of communication to audiences including learners using the print, film, radio television or satellite means of communication. For example, distance learning were implemented using correspondence, radio, television or the computer satellite system.

Close to the turn of the 21^st century, however, such a distinction merged owing to the advert of the microprocessor, also known as the personal computer (PC). This is due to the fact that the PC user at home, office and school has before him a tool for both audio-visual creations and media communication.

To illustrate, let’s examine the programs (capabilities) normally installed in an ordinary modern PC:

●   Microsoft Office – program for composing text, graphics, photos into letters, articles, report, etc.

●   Power point – for preparing lecture presentations.

●   Excel – for spreadsheets and similar graphic sheets.

●   Internet Explorer – access to the internet.

●   Yahoo or Google – websites; e-mail, chat rooms, blog sites, news service (print/video) educational software etc.

●   Adobe Reader – graphs/photo composition and editing.

●   MSN – mail/chat messaging.

●   Windows media player – CD, VCD player.

●   Cyber Power – DVD player

●   Windows media player – editing film/video.

●   Gatehouse – video games.