RTICLES, 

ICT

ICT INTEGRATION – A BREAKTHROUGH

IN TEACHING
AUGUST 11, 2015 ARIAS
The rapid evolution of information and communication technology (ICT) is changing the face of
education and making information universal. Realizing the effects of the ICT in the education
system, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Education provided most of
the schools with computer units and peripherals. Some of the teachers in these schools have
undergone ICT trainings.
ICT has become an indispensable tool in enhancing the students’ learning capabilities. However,
this new technology could not replace the teachers in the classroom. It is not a solution for all
educational problems either (Wang & Woo, 2007). ICT is certainly an effective tool that enables us to
link various learning communities together in new and different ways (Tailor, 2000). It provides great
possibilities for effective communication between teachers and students in varying and innovative
ways.
As agents of change, teachers provide knowledge and facilitate learning. Teachers who embrace
ICT in teaching provide meaningful learning experiences to the students. In addition, habitual users
of ICT look for opportunities to upgrade their ICT knowledge and skills, share their experiences, and
create a culture of collaboration in order to assist each other. It is imperative that teachers are
exceptional models in implementing the ICT integration program. They have to show that they are
proficient users and teachers of ICT.
In the research that I conducted, teachers considered ICT as an effective teaching innovation, which
may improve the teaching and learning process. Using ICT in classroom, helps motivate students to
be attentive and participative. Teachers facilitate instruction without losing time and energy in
achieving the learning outcomes. During interviews, teachers mentioned that their students showed
active participation in the classroom discussions when they use computers and other multimedia.
ICT integration provides meaningful and productive learning experiences through student-centered
classroom. Students demonstrated good academic performance in their lessons.
The teachers also commented that there are plenty of websites that have been created which can
easily be downloaded for free. Internet sources are useful because teachers could easily access
updated information in various websites. One could just simply “copy and paste” information
provided sources are acknowledged. Varied and vast information are available in the web, which
even the libraries cannot provide. The teachers further stated that the computers help to save time
and effort in crafting lesson plans and selecting appropriate visual aids. They could also access or
prepare PowerPoint presentations for their lessons.
Successful implementation on the use of ICT in teaching depends upon sufficient access to ICT
tools and ICT-open-minded teachers. Strong linkages with non-government organizations and other
stakeholders could help facilitate the integration of ICT in schools. It is important that schools fully
implement ICT integration, to empower teachers in the classroom respond to the call of the K-to-12
global education standard.
By: Salley D. Moreno
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The Importance of Technology in Philippine Education

The education system has undergone a paradigm shift from where it used to stand
years ago. In the olden days, students had to go to the library and open big books to
find the information they needed. In the 20 th century, one would find thousands of results
for the same things they need—in just a fraction of a second. The technology has truly
improved, and continues to evolve.
Computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets—these devices have become a necessity in
today’s age. These are not merely for fun and leisure anymore. They are now being
heavily used by our education sector. The power and importance of technology in
education is evident now more than ever, as Filipino students need access to education
even during crisis.

The Importance of Technology in

Education
Technology is so advanced, so much that it now drives business growth. Hence,
companies maximize this to improve their performance, so they hire tech-savvy
candidates who can contribute to their businesses. In line with this, school is a good
training ground for future professionals. It can help these kids by integrating technology
into their system through their materials, facilities, rooms, and even modules. On the
other hand, kids nowadays are digital natives. Using tech for their daily studies can help
them more than it can drag them down.

With the ongoing pandemic , we can see how important it is in our country. In fact, it has
been tagged as the “silver lining of our education system” in a virtual round table called
“Education During Trying Times” last October 2020. “We are in an era of technology
and digitalization. Let us maximize all of these and continue to help each other and find
solutions to the challenges being faced by the education sector,” said Dr. Ethel Agnes
P. Valenzuela, SEAMEO secretariat director.
Technology bridges the gap between quarantine and teaching. During the second
quarter of 2020, we can recall how our education sector carried out online classes.
Many LGUs distributed mobile devices to students, teachers underwent training to
maximize digital learning, and learning programs were added to our TV channels. In
fact, the DepEd TV team aimed to produce 220 episodes weekly covering all subject
areas by January 2021. Zoom has boomed not only here but also worldwide, being
used as a primary tool for virtual classes. Smartphones have become essential more
than just being a luxury. Digital tech during this time is a need for all.

So, how vital is tech to education? We’ve listed some of the key benefits of tech both to
students and teachers.
Benefits of Tech to Students and
Teachers
1. Equips students for their future careers
As mentioned earlier, digital tools will surely help students prepare for their future
careers. How? Through the internet, mobile devices, and computers, students have the
chance to acquire key skills to compete globally for in-demand jobs. Regardless of
where these jobs might be—in the IT, agriculture, art, health, research, food industry or
elsewhere—workers need computer skills.

Through these advanced tools, technical skills can be exercised. But more than this, it’s
instilling learning as a skill for life. Tech must be used to engage students to embrace
love of learning new things. It must help them explore things that interest them. Also, it
must bring limitless possibilities of learning to fully equip them in the future.

2. Personalizes learning and teaching approaches

Do you know that each person has their own learning style? Some learn better through
hearing, and some through great visuals. Some lean more on logical learning, and
some more on verbal. Yes, it varies and it’s quite a challenge for teachers to perform all
these in the class.
Thanks to technology, teachers can customize learning for students. It enables them to
improve their instruction methods and personalize learning, thus increasing their
productivity and efficiency as instructors. Through these helpful tools, teachers can
provide exciting activities. These include watching videos to further delve into the topic
and creating robots to apply their learning. It’s also great content that helps spark and
boost curiosity in kids.

3. Drives down costs in the long run, and brings more

learning opportunities
True enough, tech tools are expensive. However, in the long run, they’ll cut your costs.
For instance, e-book or online modules will drive down your cost in printing your
materials. Another one is buying a computer for teachers will save them time in
computing the students’ grades and creating tests.

For students, having access to mobile devices such as laptops will help them learn
anytime, anywhere. It’ll also give them access to millions of resources that would prove
beneficial to their studies. These tools open doors of learning chances for them for
unexplored topics in their classes. On the other hand, teachers won’t be limited to the
school’s provided modules. They can explore on their own, so they can give the best
info to the class.
4. Boosts teamwork and communication
Tech can foster these skills. Teachers and students can remain in touch even outside
the school vicinity. Online lessons and games encourage them to work together even
apart. Not only does it promote productivity; it also encourages responsibility on both
parties. Will you work with your team even if you’re not together? Can you finish a task
given by your group leader? Though apart, accountability can be exercised.

Besides, students now have the chance to ask questions related to school. One
practical tip: Be mindful of the teacher’s work hours. Only ask them during this time to
show them the respect they deserve.

Challenges of Using Tech in Learning

With benefits come the challenges. Tech has its pros and cons, as we can in the
challenges we’ve listed below regarding the use of tech in learning.

1. A lot of distractions for students

Using smartphones in learning is helpful. However, students might get easily distracted
because of several social media apps such as Facebook and Twitter. An unstable net
connection is also a challenge to many and it can hinder them from fully learning online.

Also, online classes these days are a challenge to many students. They are at risk of
developing screen fatigue and burnout. Many are also having a hard time separating
their school tasks from the personal duties at home.

2. Being free all the time

Online classes might give an impression of being free all the time. Yet this is not the
case. It is highly encouraged to set aside time for schoolwork and “me” time. But when
the situation calls for it, go and stretch your patience. Students are also facing a hard
time adapting to online classes.

3. Not all students have access to digital tools

Many kids, especially street children and out-of-school youth, don’t have access to
these tools. What will they do now that school has transitioned online? Will they stop
learning, too? True, the government is taking action to provide these children their
school needs. But the problem is reaching out to as many children as possible.

Childhope’s Program to Help Children

Learn through Technology
Truly, technology is important in learning. Through it, we can reach out to more children
and leave them something they can bring to life. For instance, S&P Global
Philippines conducted a digital storytelling activity last February 2021. It aimed to help
the level of knowledge of street children under our program about their rights as
children. It also nurtured street children to act toward respecting, protecting, and fulfilling
these rights.
We are hoping that, one day, kids with no access to these tools will be given the chance
to learn again. Want to be part of advocacy in bringing hope to street children, one kid
at a time? Contact us now and donate today.