ICT as a constructive tools

Constructivists’ belief that children construct their own knowledge based on their prior knowledge and experiences. This idea had been incorporated in ICT. Some components of ICT helps the students to construct their knowledge. Those tools which helps the students to construct their knowledge is called constructive tools in ICT. Power point is one example of a constructive tool, where students can use their creativity to construct their own knowledge. There are many others examples such as publisher, excel, word, Camtasia, google classroom, etc.

As a teacher I think we need to be competent enough to tackle with those constructive tools as we cannot teach what we don’t know to our students. Constructive tools can be part of effective teaching learning materials for the teachers. Example; let’s say we are going to teach the concept ‘deforestation’. We can deliver the information through the presentation slide or though the posters rather than lecture method. In a way, it provides multiples means to present our information. We can reduce the consumption of resources if we make use of constructive tools. Example; instead of recording the class test marks on paper, teachers can use spread sheet; using power point to dot the notes instead of chart papers and chalk board. Use of constructive tools consumes less time. Example; unloading the resource materials on online so that they can prepare for next class.

Keeping those advantages, we are taught how to tackle with this constructive tools. During FIT class, we are induced with how to use Microsoft word, excel and PowerPoint during first year.  I can now create simple presentation, use the features in excel to plot graphs, record, and create mark sheets, use the features in the word. Although we are not introduced with publisher, I have prepared brochure as an assignment on HPE403. It may not be a perfect but I am confident to use the features of MS. Publisher.

There is rapid development in technology. The old methods of teaching do not suit the taste bud of today’s youths. There should be mixture of technology in our lesson to match the taste of digital natives. Therefore, I find it significant to learn the skills to operate those constructive tools especially for the future teachers like us. Moreover, there are numerous advantages for using these tools. We can minimize the use of resources and time, provides multiple means of presenting information, and it is effective tools for the teachers. Therefore, I promise I will not let my knowledge unsung, instead I will keep on full swing throughout my carrier.