Meaning of ICT

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is an extended term for information technology (IT) which
stresses the role of unified communications and the integration of telecommunications (wired and wireless signals),
computers as well as necessary enterprise software, middleware, storage, and audio-visual systems, which enable
users to access, store, transmit, and manipulate information.
However, ICT has no universal definition, as the concepts, methods and applications involved in ICT are constantly
evolving on an almost daily basis.
The broadness of ICT covers any product that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit or receive information
electronically in a digital form.
e.g. personal computers, digital television, email, robots.
ICT is the fusion of infrastructure and components that enable modern computing.
What is Critical Understanding of ICT
Providing practical experience and reflective engagement on critical issues related to Information and
Communication Technologies in a workshop mode through presentations and seminars around selected readings.
Engaging student-teachers to understand the role of ICT in education in relation to various policies and curriculum
frameworks on ICT and in diverse socio-economic contexts.
To assure that it provides a rich learning experience for student-teachers through various ICT tools to enable them …
 To engage diverse classroom contexts
 To critically assess the quality and efficacy of resources and tools available
 To access and suitably modify open educational resources
 To develop their own pedagogic materials
 To pursue lifelong learning
Need of ICT
 Information Technology in Education, effects of the continuous developments in ICT on education.
 The pace of change brought about by new technologies has had a significant effect on the way people live,
work, and play worldwide.
 New and emerging technologies challenge the traditional process of teaching and learning, and the way
education is managed.
 ICT is having a major impact across all curriculum areas.
 Easy worldwide communication provides instant access to a vast array of data, challenging assimilation and
assessment skills.
 Rapid communication, plus increased access to IT in the home, at work, and in educational establishments,
could mean that learning becomes a truly lifelong activity.

Components of Communication
1. Context
2. Sender/Encoder
3. Message
4. Medium
5. Receiver/Decoder
6. Feedback
Context
Every message (Oral or written), begins with context. Context is a very broad field that consists
different aspects. One aspect is country, culture and organization. Every organization, culture
and country communicate information in their own way.
Another aspect of context is external stimulus. The sources of external stimulus includes; meeting,
letter, memo, telephone call, fax, note, email and even a casual conversation. This external stimuli
motivates you to respond and this response may be oral or written.
Internal stimuli is another aspect of communication. Internal Stimuli includes; You opinion, attitude,
likes, dis-likes, emotions, experience, education and confidence. These all have multifaceted
influence on the way you communicate you ideas.
A sender can communicate his ideas effectively by considering all aspects of context mentioned
above.
Sender/Encoder
Encoder is the person who sends message. In oral communication the encoder is speaker, and
in written communication writer is the encoder. An encoder uses combination of symbols, words,
graphs and pictures understandable by the receiver, to best convey his message in order to
achieve his desired response.
Message
Message is the information that is exchanged between sender and receiver. The first task is
to decide what you want to communicate and what would be the content of your message; what
are the main points of your message and what other information to include. The central idea of the
message must be clear. While writing the message, encoder should keep in mind all aspects of
context and the receiver (How he will interpret the message).
Messages can be intentional and unintentional.
Medium
Medium is the channel through which encoder will communicate his message. How the
message gets there. Your medium to send a message, may be print, electronic, or sound. Medium
may be a person as postman. The choice of medium totally depends on the nature of you
message and contextual factors discussed above. Choice of medium is also influence by the
relationship between the sender and receiver.
The oral medium, to convey your message, is effective when your message is urgent, personal or
when immediate feedback is desired. While, when your message is ling, technical and needs to be
documented, then written medium should be preferred that is formal in nature. These guidelines
may change while communicating internationally where complex situations are dealt orally and
communicated in writing later on.
Receiver/Decoder
The person to whom the message is being sent is called ‘receiver’/’decoder’. Receiver may be a
listener or a reader depending on the choice of medium by sender to transmit the
message. Receiver is also influenced by the context, internal and external stimuli.
Receiver is the person who interprets the message, so higher the chances are of mis-
communication because of receivers perception, opinion, attitude and personality. There will be
minor deviation in transmitting the exact idea only if your receiver is educated and have
communication skills.
Feedback
Response or reaction of the receiver, to a message, is called ‘feedback’. Feedback may be written
or oral message, an action or simply, silence may also be a feedback to a message.
Feedback is the most important component of communication in business. Communication
is said to be effective only when it receives some feedback. Feedback, actually, completes the
loop of communication.
Following principles of communication make it more effective:
1. Principle of Clarity:
The idea or message to be communicated should be clearly spelt out. It should
be worded in such a way that the receiver understands the same thing which
the sender wants to convey. There should be no ambiguity in the message. It
should be kept in mind that the words do not speak themselves but the speaker
gives them the meaning. A clear message will evoke the same response from
the other party. It is also essential that the receiver is conversant with the
language, inherent assumptions, and the mechanics of communication.
2. Principle of Attention:
In order to make communication effective, the receiver’s attention should be
drawn towards message. People are different in behaviour, attention, emotions
etc. so they may respond differently to the message. Subordinates should act
similarly as per the contents of the message. The acts of a superior also draw
the attention of subordinates and they may follow what they observe. For
example, if a superior is very punctual in coming to the office then
subordinates will also develop such habits. It is said that ‘actions speak louder
than words.
3. Principle of Feedback:
The principle of feedback is very important to make the communication
effective. There should be a feedback information from the recipient to know
whether he has understood the message in the same sense in which the sender
has meant it.
4. Principle of Informality:
Formal communication is generally used for transmitting messages and other
information. Sometimes formal communication may not achieve the desired
results, informal communication may prove effective in such situations.
Management should use informal communication for assessing the reaction of
employees towards various policies. Senior management may informally
convey certain decisions to the employees for getting their feedback. So this
principle states that informal communication is as important as formal
communication.
5. Principle of Consistency:
This principle states that communication should always be consistent with the
policies, plans, programmes and objectives of the organization and not in
conflict with them. If the messages and communications are in conflict with
the policies and programmes then there will be confusion in the minds of
subordinates and they may not implement them properly. Such a situation will
be detrimental to the interests of the organization.
6. Principle of Timeliness:
This principle states that communication should be done at proper time so that
it helps in implementing plans. Any delay in communication may not serve any
purpose rather decisions become of historical importance only.
7. Principle of Adequacy:
The information communicated should be adequate and complete in all
respects. Inadequate information may delay action and create confusion.
Inadequate information also affects efficiency of the receiver. So adequate
information is essential for taking proper decisions and making action plans.
USES OF COMPUTERS IN COMMUNICATION AND EDUCATION
One of the most important uses of computers is communication. The computer has
made the world a global village. That everyone is connected with each other. It is
also playing a significant role in the defense departments, agriculture, education,
the field of chemistry, For office automation, at home, and the market, etc.
In past, people travel a lot of distances even distances of months to meet their
relatives but now computers provide the facility of communication within seconds.
We can connect with our relatives with just a single call.
Sending and receiving emails
The computer is very useful for sending electronic mail. It also receives emails. Most
offices, banks, and hospitals use computers to send emails.
Computer conferencing
The computer is helpful for conference calls. This is mostly used by businessmen or
heads of offices use for conference calls in which all the members connected with
each other through calls and share their ideas.
Most deals are done through computer conferencing. In the modern era, it is very
useful for people who start an online business because all their meetings are
through computer conferencing.
Example
Video conferencing allows people sitting in different parts of the world to participate
in a conference. It is mostly used in businesses.
Post news
The computer is also used for viewing and posting the news. Basically, this is also
the type of communication because in this way everyone gets information about
others and now what’s happening around them.
Example
Actors posts about their life on the internet and in this way their fans stay tuned and
connected with their life. With much more advantages the internet has
some disadvantages.
Video calls
Now people can see each other through video calls. People are only a short
distance away from each other. It permits people to meet at a common time over
long distances. Video calls save time and also keep the cost of traveling.
Example
In the past people have no source of communication rather they have to go to that
place to meet their relatives but now computers provide them with this facility that
they can communicate with each other through computers.
Bulletin board system
This system also helps in communication. This software allows the bulletin board
system to answer the calls that are received from the user’s computer and it also
stores messages and allows access to the information stored in its files. Users can
also take part in ongoing discussions or share their ideas.
Example
Bulletin is provided for such people who have the same interests. It is provided for a
group of employees, patients, students, and teachers.
Satellite communication
This system is used for the telecommunication of radio and
television signals. Channels are employed for the transfer of a large amount
of data. Satellite transmission media is the fastest way of sending voice, texts,
videos,s or images over long distances.
Social Media Communication
The computer also provides the facility for social media communication. Social
media is based on online communication channels in which. the group-
based input can be done through social networking or communication. Social
media helps to share the views of the public.
What is a learning management system (LMS)?
A learning management system is a software application or web-based technology used to plan,
implement and assess a specific learning process. It's used for e-learning practices and, in its
most common form, consists of two elements: a server that performs the base functionality and a
user interface (UI) that is operated by instructors, students and administrators.
Typically, an LMS provides an instructor with a way to create and deliver content, monitor
student participation, and assess student performance. It might also provide students with
interactive features, such as threaded discussions, video conferencing and discussion forums.
Businesses, government agencies, and traditional and online educational institutions often use
these systems. They can improve traditional educational methods, while also saving
organizations time and money. An effective system lets instructors and administrators efficiently
manage elements such as user registration and access, content, calendars, communication,
quizzes, certifications and notifications.
The Advanced Distributed Learning group, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, has
created a set of specifications called the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) to
encourage the standardization of LMSes.
Some popular LMSes used by educational institutions include Moodle, Anthology's Blackboard
Learn and PowerSchool's Schoology Learning. Popular enterprise-level LMSes include Adobe
Learning Manager, Docebo Learn LMS, eFront, iSpring Learn and TalentLMS.
What are learning management systems used for?
LMSes are beneficial to a range of organizations, including higher education institutions and
companies. They're primarily used for knowledge management: the gathering, organizing,
sharing and analysis of an organization's knowledge in terms of resources, documents and
people skills. The role of the LMS varies according to the organization's training strategy and
goals.
Onboarding and training
Employee training and onboarding are two common uses of LMSes in a business environment.
For onboarding, the LMS helps train new employees, providing opportunities to access training
programs across various devices. New employees are able to add their own knowledge and
provide feedback, helping employers understand how effective the training course materials are
and identify areas where new hires need assistance.
An LMS can be used for extended enterprise training purposes as well. This includes customer,
partner and member training. Customer learning activities are common in software and
technology companies where user learning goals might include learning how to use a product or
system. Ongoing LMS-based customer training improves the customer experience and can
increase brand loyalty.
When using an LMS for these purposes, instructors can create immersive learning experiences
that let users develop new skills and problem-solving capabilities. For example, an LMS could
be used to create tutorials that incorporate augmented reality, virtual reality and artificial
intelligence (AI). This will likely have the effect of improving creativity and innovation
throughout the workforce.
Development and retention
Employee development and retention is another way LMSes are used in businesses. The system
assigns courses to employees to ensure they are developing effective job skills, remain informed
about product changes, and have requisite product and compliance knowledge.
Sales training
Another way LMSes are used is to enhance employee sales skills. This includes the creation of
seminars on product knowledge, customer interaction training and case study-based tutorials that
use previous experiences with clients to improve future interactions.
Blended learning
An LMS can provide students with blended learning experiences that combine traditional
classroom teaching with online learning tools. This method is more effective than simple face-
to-face education because it enriches instructor-led training in the classroom with digital
learning content customized to fit a student's learning needs.
How do learning management systems work?
An LMS can be thought of as a large repository where users store and track information in one
place. Any user with a login and password can access the system and its online learning
resources. If the system is self-hosted, the user must either install the software on their computer
or access it via their company's server.
Some common LMS features include the following capabilities and technologies:
 Responsive design. Users can access the LMS from any type of device, whether it's a

desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. The system automatically displays the version best
suited for each user's chosen device and lets users download content for offline work.
 User-friendly interface. The UI lets learners navigate the LMS platform and is aligned with

the abilities and goals of the user and the organization. An unintuitive UI risks confusing or
distracting users and will make the LMS less effective.
 Reports and analytics. E-learning assessment tools show instructors and administrators

how effective online training initiatives are. Both groups of learners and individuals can be
analyzed with these tools and metrics.
 Catalog and course management. Admins and instructors manage the catalog of course

content in the LMS to create more targeted learning experiences.

 Content interoperability and integration. Content created and stored in an LMS must be

packaged in accordance with interoperable standards, including SCORM and xAPI.

 Support services. Different LMS vendors offer varying levels of support. Many provide

online discussion boards where users can connect and help each other. Additional support
services, such as a dedicated, toll-free phone number, might be available for an extra cost.
 Certification and compliance support. This feature is essential to systems used for online

compliance training and certifications. Instructors and admins assess an individual's skill set
and identify any gaps in their performance. This feature also makes it possible to use LMS
records during an audit.
 Social learning capabilities. Many LMSes include social media tools in their learning

platforms to let users interact with their peers, collaborate and share learning experiences.
 Gamification. Some LMSes include game mechanics or built-in gamification features that

add extra motivation and engagement to courses. This gives students additional incentive
to complete courses, in the form of leaderboards, points and badges.
 Automation. Learning management systems automate repeated and tedious tasks, such as

grouping, adding and deactivating users, and handling group enrollments.

 Localization. LMSes often include multilingual support, removing language barriers from

learning and training content. Some LMSes integrate geolocation features that

automatically present the appropriate version of the course when a user accesses it.
 Artificial intelligence. LMSes use AI to create personalized learning experiences for users
with course formats suited to their needs. AI also helps suggest topics a user might find
interesting based on the courses they've already completed.
Types of LMS deployments
The different LMS deployment options include the following:
 Cloud-based LMSes are hosted on the cloud and often follow a software as a service (SaaS)

business model. Providers maintain the system and handle updates or upgrades. Online
users can access the system apps from anywhere at any time using a username and
password.
 Self-hosted LMSes require the organization to download and install the LMS software. The

self-hosted platform provides creative control and customization, but the organization is
responsible for maintaining the system and might also have to pay for updates.
 Third-party hosted LMSes are also learning resources hosted by a third-party organization.

Courses can be obtained directly from a public cloud location, or from the training
company's own data center or private cloud.
 Desktop application LMSes are installed on the user's desktop. However, the application

might still be accessible on multiple devices.

 Mobile application LMSes support a mobile learning environment and are accessible

wherever and whenever through mobile devices. This platform deployment type lets users
engage with and track their online learning initiatives on the go.
What are the payment options for LMSes?
The various pricing models used for LMSes include the following:
 Freemium. This free model lets users access the basic features of some LMS platforms for

no fee. Once users start engaging with the more advanced functionalities of the system, a
fee is imposed.
 Subscription. Users pay a recurring fee at regular intervals to access the LMS. The

subscription might grant an organization total access to all LMS features or it might require
the organization to pay for each user.
 Licensing. LMS licensing is based on either an annual fee that companies must renew or a

one-time fee that provides users with unlimited lifetime access.

 Open source. These products are usually provided at no cost. Some examples are Chamilo,

EdApp, Ilias, Moodle and Sakai.

Benefits of an LMS
An LMS can save an organization time and money. Instead of making learners take time out of
their day to travel and sit through classes or training at another location, LMSes let them
complete the coursework at a time and in a place that's best for them. In addition, LMSes
eliminate the need for instructors, training days, training materials, travel expenses and location
hiring.
Some other benefits of learning management systems include the following:
 The ability to monitor users' learning progress and performance.

 Increased e-learning accessibility without geographic limitations.

 Personalized online courses, training and learning experiences.

 The ability to easily and efficiently update e-learning modules and activities.

 Consistent and easy distribution of online training and learning content across an

organization.
 Elimination of repetitive tasks, such as user enrollment and certification.

 Centralized learning that lets an organization organize and store all data in one place,

making it easier for instructors and admins to update and maintain learning materials.
 Advanced encryption features to keep data and content secure.
Using content management systems with LMSes
An important part of the LMS process is creating the content to be used in the system. If the
LMS has its own content, you'll want to check that it can be changed in response to your
organization's requirements. If you need to create your own content, a content management
system (CMS) can be helpful.
A CMS helps produce a variety of content types and includes two components:
 A content management application to design, modify and delete the content.

 A content delivery application that formats the content for its ultimate destination.

What is Scanner?
The scanner is an input device whose job is to scan any document. Through the scanner
itself, you enter any hard copy into the computer as a soft copy. A scanner is a very useful
input device.
What are the Uses of Scanner?
There are various 5 uses of scanner, which are given below.
 Document File
 Diagram & Picture
 Book
 Story Book
 Graphics & Banners
1. Scan Document File
With the use of scanners, you can scan any type of document with a scanner and get that
hard document file inside the computer as a soft document.
You cannot scan any document without a scanner. You can scan any document through
the scanner.
2. Scan Diagram & Picture
Using Scanners, you can scan any type of Diagram & Picture with the scanner and enter
that hard Diagram & Picture in the form of a soft Diagram & Picture on the computer.
For example, you can also scan your own photo and enter it as a soft photo on the
computer.
You cannot scan any document without a scanner. You can scan any document through
the scanner itself.
3. Scan Book
Using scanners, you can also scan any type of book with a scanner and enter that hard
book as a soft book on the computer.
You cannot scan any book without a scanner. You can scan any book through the scanner
itself.
4. Scan Story Book
Using scanners, you can also scan any type of story book with a scanner and enter that
hard story book as a soft book in the computer.
You cannot scan any story book without a scanner. You can scan any story book through
the scanner itself.
5. Scan Graphics & Banners
Using Scanners, you can also scan any type of Graphics & Banners with the scanner and
enter that hard Graphics & Banners in the form of a soft book on the computer.
You cannot scan any Graphics & Banners without a scanner. You can scan any Graphics &
Banners through the scanner itself.
USING INTERACTIVE WHITEBOARDS IN THE CLASSROOM
Interactive whiteboards allow educators to take standard lessons and turn them into interactive activities.
Kids have fun while they learn. Interactive whiteboards like the Sharp Aquos Board are replacing
overhead projectors in classrooms across the nation. Here are 7 reasons why:
1) ENHANCED LESSONS
Interactive whiteboards integrate various learning styles into one experience. Students can learn by seeing,
hearing, and interacting with the board through touch. This equips teachers with new, innovative ways to
teach the same subject material. Because of this, students learn better and remember more.
2) INTERACTIVE LEARNING
Interactive whiteboards allow children to interact with the learning material. They become a part of the
lesson and can even teach each other. Their understanding of the subject is seen through touching,
drawing, or writing on the board. Educational games can be played by entire classrooms. They also provide
immediate feedback, so students and teachers can easily assess student progress.  
3) EASY TO USE
Interactive whiteboards are clean and require very low maintenance. No chalk or markers or other writing
utensils needed. Data is modified using a specialized pen for highlighting, drawing, and writing. Therefore
there is no mess. No cleanup. It’s just that easy.
4) FLEXIBILITY IN THE CLASSROOM
Various media types can be displayed on an interactive whiteboard. Whether photos, graphs, maps,
illustrations, or videos- teachers have an abundance of options. You can create creative lessons to inspire
your students. 
5) CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET
Interactive whiteboards are connected to the internet which gives you a resource of online tools and
information. Teachers have access to various sources to enhance and support their lessons with video,
articles, images, learning tools, and more. Students also have a rich resource for research and learning. 
6) INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY
Interactive whiteboard technology allows for the integration of various other technologies to enhance
student learning. Any device you can think of like computers, microscopes, cameras, and video cameras
can be attached to the boards to enhance instruction. As a result, the possibilities are near endless.
7) PROVEN EFFECTIVENESS
Students are more attentive in the classroom. Comprehension improves. Test scores rise. Literacy
increases. Students learn better and remember it. When children engage more in the classroom, learning
always increases.
Uses of LCD projector

1. Lectures
Most teachers find chalkboards hard, tiresome, and outdated. Inventions of projectors
have made teaching easier instead of writing notes on aboard. The LCD projector is
used in school by instructors as a lecture supplement. With a presentation of
powerpoint alongside a computer. The present lecturer PowerPoint slides using a
whiteboard and describes useful principles as she gives notes and displays arousing
features of a topic. These enable instructors to give well-organized notes, and also
students can take important notes with the skill to comprehend essential information.
With the use of electronic devices, students can request a repetition of a slide if they
have missed information or ask the lecturer to email a presentation for further
reference. Moreover, learners can set up powerpoint documents to serve as
background information during class presentations and projects. Presentation of
information on projectors lessens the need to make hard copies of materials, which
can be shown once for the whole class.
2. Video
Instructors can use projectors to display videos in the classroom because of making
learning to be fun and deepen perception. A learner is attentive when visual and
sound senses are involved at the same time rather than being passive. For instance, a
teacher can show a YouTube documentary, a film on a DVD, or personal videos taken
during field trips. The LCD substitutes old fashioned film projector as its great
advantage is computer connection whereby you access diverse video materials.
However, a teacher should use the tool effectively to improve potential value.
3. Quizzes and attendance
Schools have developed interactive systems which use devices like computer,
handheld clicker, and LCD projector. With these systems, each learner in school has a
multi knob clicker. The teacher makes a general software model that uses clickers to
get class attendance and score questions. Consequently, the questions do not affect
the grades of students directly; instead, the instructor use results to weigh the
effectiveness of her work. When students click their buttons, the LCD projector can
display an aggregate class mean score if the teacher has executed software on a data
processing machine.
4. Demonstrations
A teacher requires a projector to handle many students in a lecture hall. The use of
LCD projectors gives learners a clear demonstration of a particular topic. The
instructor can connect the projector to a webcam or desktop to give a demonstration
to a big audience. In such an instance, a chemistry instructor can carry out a chemical
reaction. Archaeology professors can demonstrate features of early man remains, or
English instructors can show chapters of a novel. It also helps students to watch an
online demonstration of tricky projects like exploring a volcano. These give the
learner’s background information on what tools are needed then make a plan for the
project.
5. Business/Corporate presentations
A projector is essential for business owners and those who work in the office. The
LCD projector can be used by business people to make valuable information for
employees to see or take notes in small and large meetings. Secondly, a business
projector saves the money needed to spend on hard copies and handouts. Employees
can view projectors what is discussed in meetings, thus less the cost to purchase
materials. Furthermore, it is tiresome to listen when someone is speaking throughout a
conference. However, the use of audiovisual aids stimulates the attendee’s interest
and attention.
6. Exhibitions and trade shows
The digital audiovisual technique should not be ignored when preparing for exhibition
and trade shows. Shows booths are improved systematically by video projectors like
LCD. A business person should put in mind that potential customers and business
partners need the motivation to stay. Great images projected on walls during trade
shows make easy implementation to stand out among many exhibitors. A slide
displayed on an LCD can create an attraction to people. Rather than an exhibition
without the use of projectors in a creative manner. Lastly, visualized techniques are
the best option accompanying presentation mediums. These means, use of slides
enhance speech.
7. Corporate trave l
A person who gives a presentation on trips or salesperson will often benefit from LCD
projectors. Lightweight LCD is a requirement for entrepreneurs who must travel and
deliver a presentation. Business people make a spectacular presentation made by
Microsoft PowerPoint.
8. Prison entertainment
Prison has a large audience; therefore, LCD has several advantages such as
portability, huge images, customized screen size, compact size, and eye comfort.
Prisoners can enjoy movies and shows presented by projectors. Lastly, the main
advantage of using LCD projectors for prison entertainment is that the screen can be
adjusted to any desired size regardless of their size. Flat screens have permanent
size hence cannot be configured into sizes.
9. Gaming
LCD projectors are the best ways of playing games in the living room instead of going for excess television
of many inches. It is also difficult to get a flat-screen with inches exceeding 77. It is worth to invest in
projectors for gaming because it has advantages over big screens. Additionally, projectors save on space
since it can be put on a side table with less space on the contrary to televisions that need a cabinet to stand.
These make your living room have enough space if when you are not gaming.
10. Military and organizations briefings
State organizations, bodies of government, and also military bodies use LCD
projectors to make short conversations as well as giving people important information
in meetings.
11. Church service s
Today churches use projectors to jazz up their services. The message is got across
people by use of multimedia. Other preachers go ahead and use powerpoint
presentations throughout the service than printing bulletins. LCD has greatly saved
the use of papers, labor, and time.