1.

0 Introduction

In recent years, several studies and reports have highlighted the opportunities and the
potential benefits of information and communication technologies (ICT) for improving the
quality of education. ICT is viewed as a major tool for building knowledge societies
(UNESCO 2003 UNESCO Communiqu of the ministerial roundtable on Towards
Knowledge Societies and, particularly, as a mechanism at the school education level that
could provide a way to rethink and redesign the educational systems and processes, thus
leading to quality education for all.

Modern developments in information and communication technologies (ICT) provide

exciting possibilities to enhance the quality of education. Interactive education software, open
access digital libraries, and cheaper and more intuitive technology may facilitate new forms
of interaction between students, teachers, education employees and the community and
enhance the quality of education by making it more accessible.

2.0 ICT in Education

Information and communication technology (ICT) has become, within a very short
time, one of the basic building blocks of modern society. Many countries now regard
understanding ICT and mastering the basic skills and concepts of ICT as part of the core of
education, alongside reading, writing and numeracy.

ICT is the Information and Communication Technologies. "ICT in Education" means

"Teaching and Learning with ICT". Educational ICT tools can be divided into 3 categories:
Input source, Output source and others. Worldwide research has shown that ICT can lead to
improved student learning and better teaching methods.

The very expression Information and Communication Technology has lots of ideas in
it. It is not just using gadgets. The focus is on what is being transacted through this medium.
We have information technology and communication technology. Managing of large
quantities of information and communicating the same to the concerned people is the need of
the hour. It is a very comprehensive expression. It is not limited to the computers or the
internet. It ranges from the use of FM radio to the use of satellite for communication. It
includes both the form and essence of communication. ICT has the potential to make learning
more experiential. Moreover the large amount of data, visuals available on any topic can be
brought to the classroom from all over the world. That is why ICT has been considered an
emerging area with lots of potential for making educational process more meaningful.

3.0 Various Applications of ICT in Education in the Classroom and Outside the
Classroom

4.0 Discussion of the similarities and differences between synchronous and

asynchorous learning in the context of ICT in Education

5.0 Discussion on the roles of ICT as an enabler of effective teaching and learning in
the classroom and outside the classroom

Technology can make the learning process more efficient without detracting from
established educational objectives. Once the individual is proficient in the basics of reading,
writing, computations and oral communication, then the learning experience can be further
enhanced by calculators, distance learning, computer-assisted instruction using integrated
learning systems, microcomputer-based labs, presentation software and telecommunications.

6.0 Conclusion

ICT allow for a higher quality lessons through collaboration with teachers in planning
and preparing resources (Ofsted, 2002). Students learn new skills: analytical, including
improvements in reading comprehension (Lewin et al, 2000). ICT also develop some writing
skills: spelling, grammar, punctuation, editing and re-drafting (Lewin et al, 2000). Still new
technologies encourage independent and active learning, and students responsibility for their
own learning (Passey, 1999) ICT proves that students who used educational technology felt
more successful in school they are more motivated to learn more and have increased self-
confidence and self-esteem. It is also confirmed that many students found learning in a
technology-enhanced setting more stimulating and much better than in a traditional classroom
environment.