3 Stages of ICT Thus Far

One of the most popular phrases used to describe our current world is 'globalisation'. While the world has certainly not shrunk, an increased level of connectivity and mobilisation has made Mother Earth appear less vast to those equipped with the necessary technologies. Because of our size and geological position, it is to our advantage that we are well-connected internationally, even to countries that may literally be on the other side of the world. Even as current adults are being introduced to various technologies, Singapore has identified the importance of starting young- hence the need for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to be integrated into our education system.


Introducing major changes into the education system involves not just a re-training of teachers, but also the need to convince children (and their parents) of the necessity of ICT know-how. The Ministry of Eduction's 3 Masterplans ensures that ICT is well-integrated into the education system as it evolves with each generation's increased familiarity with technology. Apart from the obvious benefit of equipping Singapore's future with the necessary skills to survive in our connected world, the integration of ICT into our education system also serves to enhance the learning and teaching process.


Right from the start, ICT integration has always been more than mere familiarization with technology. That, to MOE, was just Goal 1. Goals 2, 3, and 4 deal with the accompanying benefits of digital learning- the need for students to take on more responsibility for their learning; teachers' ability to expand their teaching tools; and the stream-lining of school administration processes. While being able to compete in a technological era is an extremely useful tool, the main benefit here, I feel, is students being in charge of their own learning. Unlike a classroom setting, learning from a computer allows a student to move at his own pace, and the connectivity to the World Wide Web speedily satisfies curious minds that are eager to learn more about a subject. Teachers, on the other hand, also benefit from the variety of teaching tools ICT offers them. For example, English can be taught through media-reporting, which involves students working with a video camera while utilising their presentation skills. Such non-conventional lessons are highly popular with students, and these lessons are able to focus their attention on a subject that may initially appear dull to them.


Integrating ICT into lessons also acts as a class leveller as students from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the internet and new technologies. Even parents are involved as schools increasingly turn to e-mail to update parents on their child's progress. Through cyber wellness programs, schools ensure that parents are kept informed about their child's foray into the new medium of cyberspace. By involving the student's family, ICT extends its influence to the community, through the student.


Without integrating technological know-how into our education system, our students would lack a basic survival skill of the 21st Century. The qualities of being technologically savvy, of independent learning, and being connected through the internet will serve students well past their school days, making ICT an important aspect of eduction.