ICT-BASED APPROACH AND ITS TWO FACES
EDFLOR L. CASTRO
21st Century Teaching and Learning is the latest trend in the field of education. Together with this, the application of computer, gadgets, and other technology is also part of the teaching-learning process, knowledge acquisition, and even assessment. Truly, the ICT-Based Approach catches the attention and interest of the learners. It also minimizes the tasks of teachers and school heads. However, anything that is too much is not beneficial.
The term ICT refers to the use of technology that is available. It can be but not limited to computers, laptops, the internet, and other software. In education, the purpose of ICT is generally to familiarize students and teachers with the use and application of technology, which will be aid in the delivery of instruction. Definitely, it is useful for the students and the teachers. The use of ICT helps the teachers saves times in preparation of instructional materials. These materials can also be used in other class; can be saved to be shared with other teachers. Its use promotes change to education in 21st century, which is one of the goals of the K to 12 Curriculum. ICT transforms teaching and also the learning processes. The transformation gets to increase learning gains for learners that provide them the opportunity to develop creativity, communication skills, and other thinking skills.
On the other hand, too much application of ICT will lead to boredom. Exposing the learners to the same stimulus for quite long will decrease the sensation of learning. The time to set up the technology consumes time. Additionally, the ration of students and ICT materials is also a consideration. Students might not get interested anymore. The might feel lazy to attend the class if they can easily get the study material from the internet. This sudden change in behavior negatively will be a hindrance in the acquisition of knowledge. Additionally, the control on the access of the students must also be considered.
The use of this technology is a skill that a person must possess. This skill can acquired and learned as the time passes by. In 21st Century learning, students are considered the natives of technology, while the teachers are considered as the migrants. Teachers are expected to teach the desired competencies to the students with the use of ICT as stated in Republic Act 10533 or “Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013”. The migrants should train or equip themselves with this skill to further have a smooth flow of the teaching-learning process.
The use of ICT has two faces. It can give positive and negative impact both on the teachers and the students. Responsible use of this available resource should be applied, for anything that is too much may not give good result.
— oOo— The author is Teacher III at San Isidro Elementary School, Floridablanca East District