Unit Overview

In section 1.3 the relationship between ICT and learning theories was discussed and you may recollect the following:

1. Behaviourism
2. Cognitivism
3. Constructivism

In this unit we will consider how microprocessor-enhanced media tools have become such an integral part of the classroom and an invaluable for the purposes of teaching. New tools in the context of this unit refers to technologies that are digital in character (though many that are used today have their beginnings as analogue devices). With the arrival of the microprocessor and its capacity to connect via networks, almost every tool permits the teacher in the classroom or a learner at home to benefit from their sophistication.

By the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Describe the range of ICT tools that are available for teaching.
2. Demonstrate how various ICT appliances are used in the educational environment.
3. Discuss the opportunities and challenges of accessing and using the World Wide Web (WWW) in the context of e-learning.
4. Discuss the various social media tools and their use, value and implication for teaching and learning.
5. Analyse the values and distractions of using the new ICT tools in the teaching and learning environment.