Lesson 9

Computer as Information in Communication Technology

Computer assisted instruction (CAI) was introduced using the principle of individualized learning through a positive climate that includes realism and appeal with drill exercise that uses color, music and animation. The novelty of CAI has not waned to this 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 21st 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 communication to audiences including learners using the print, film radio, and 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 21st century however, such a distinction merge 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, editing film/video

- Cyber Power - DVD player

- Gamehouse - video games