Module 8 - Activity 3 - Pros and Cons of Computer Labs

Careful planning is necessary to ensure that the computer is used effectively in the lesson.  Administrators has to ensure that  each student receive equal time and opportunity to access the computer.  There are several pros and cons to the use of computer labs

Pros
1.  the world comes to the classroom
2.  the lesson is not confined to what the students see around them but its open to the world
3.  it creates more interaction and collaboration with students in other schools
4.  it can cater for all learning styles

Cons

1.  lack of ICT tools
2.  technological and social barriers to ICT integration
3.  the unwillingness of some educators and administrators to change

If we are going to do new things in new ways with ICT, then the way our computer labs are used presently will have to change.  ICt integration requires equal access to all subjects and all students if the integration process is to be effective.

Module 8 - Activity 2 - Learning in ICT-enabled classroom

The readings made me reflect on what presently takes place here in our classroom with ICT.  Is it being used to challenge, engage, and motivate our students across the curricula or are we simply using new tools to do the same old things.  It also highlighted some of the problems faced by schools and teachers with the integration of ICT.

One of the major problems that educators and administrators face is that they plan for the implementation of ICT without involving the students who are being affected by these tools.  Although the students readily accept the use of ICT tools some teachers and administrators are unsure of how to integrate ICT in their school and classroom.  Making the change in the classroom also face technological and social barriers which are not always easy to overcome.

Module 8 - Activity 1 - Classroom Management with and without ICT

The reading for this activity has highlighted the importance of classroom management with and without ICT.  In order for ICT to be effective in the classroom the following should be noted
1.  the students should be involved in learning preparation and planning
2.  activities should be planned to keep the students engaged at all times
3. clear guidelines and procedures should be set for what is expected, before, during and after a lesson

A teacher who is passionate about his/her subject with clear guidelines and procedures set for their students will be better able to maintain control of his/her class and create a more effective learning environment.

There is ineffective classroom management when there is no plan or clear rules for students to follow.