February 2003 Insights Education
Issue #1
Missing the connection?
Using ICTs in education
The spread of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the
last few decades has had a significant impact on work, leisure, culture
and social interaction. But can ICTs make a difference to development
and education? More...
Other articles in this issue
While issues of access and the relative merits of satellites or solar
power are being discussed internationally, a project in South Africa and
Egypt is exploring what actually happens at the classroom level when ICTs
are introduced. How do ICTs change the way teachers teach? How do pupils
respond to ICTs-enhanced teaching?
Can any country afford to opt out of advances in telecommunications?
Businesses are seeking to meet users’ needs better through electronic
forms of communication, so at least some members of every country’s
workforce need to have ICTs skills. Digital resources also offer a wide
variety of educational tools and opportunities for teachers, students
and communities.
What are the costs of using computers in schools? At one extreme, a school
provides each student with a laptop computer, high-speed Internet connection
and other well-resourced computer facilities. This costs several thousands
of US dollars per student. At the other extreme, efficient computer use
can reduce costs to as little as US$10 per student per year. In developing
countries where resources for schools are limited, it is vital to be aware
of the full costs of supplying a school with computers.
The use of ICTs is becoming widespread in higher education (HE) today.
Higher education institutions (HEIs) and governments are committing themselves
to making the most of new technologies to enhance teaching and learning.
But what changes do HEIs need to make if they are to use ICTs effectively?
How can health education campaigns reach rural areas at a low cost? Are
public service radio announcements the most effective way to change behaviour?
How can people be encouraged to talk about sensitive subjects? Radio drama
and especially soap operas are now being used by an increasing number
of health educators across Africa to tackle the HIV/AIDS challenge.
There is a shortage of skilled workers in information technology (IT)
in both developed and developing countries. Where will the workers needed
to develop and implement IT systems come from? Who will train the software
developers and programmers? Should the private sector play a role in helping
developing countries meet the need for qualified IT staff?
Businesses, researchers, development partners and civil society organisations
(CSOs) all have a role to play in supporting governments in the use of
ICTs to improve the quality of education.
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