ICT

What is ICT?

 Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is a broader term for Information Technology (IT), which refers to all communication technologies, including the internet, wireless networks, cell phones, computers, software, middleware, video-conferencing, social networking, and other media applications and services enabling users to access, retrieve, store, transmit, and manipulate information in a digital form.

ICTs are also used to refer to the convergence of media technology such as audio-visual and telephone networks with computer networks, by means of a unified system of cabling (including signal distribution and management) or link system. However, there is no universally accepted definition of ICTs considering that the concepts, methods and tools involved in ICTs are steadily evolving on an almost daily basis.

Importance of ICT

Today we do not need to go any further than our own home or even room, to see some form of ICT in our lives. Whether it be a computer, plasma TV, or mobile phone, we all have them in some part of our lives. In today’s society, people as consumers of ICT, all strive for the one dream – the dream of a connected life.

This makes ICT a lifestyle choice for much of the population. In addition, this lifestyle choice is changing the way we communicate, increasing the rate of consumerism, and changing how we interact and gather information.

ICT has invaded and transformed many aspects of our lives to the extent that we live in an environment that is dominated by technology which itself is consumer-driven. No matter how we perceive its presence, there is no denying that it is an important part of our lives and that it is here to sta

Characteristics of ICT

• Information is the representation of knowledge: Facts ; data
• EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION : SENDER AND RECEIVER
• TECHNOLOGY IS PRACTICAL FORM OF SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE:
• Diverse set of technological tools and resources Used to communicate , and to create , disseminate ,store ,and manage information EXAMPLE: Computer , the internet ,broadcasting technologies (radio and television ) and telephony.
• ICT CAN BE USED AS A TOOL FOR MOTIVATING STUDENTS TO LEARN DIFFERENT WAYS. ICT CAN BE EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT. ICT GIVES THE LEARNERS IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO RICHER SOURCE MATERIALS. ICT CAN BE DYNAMIC AND INTERACTIVE
• CREATES A PERSONAL USE TO BUSINESS AND GOVT.
• ICT CREATES NETWORKS: THOSE CONNECTED BENEFITS FROM THE NETWORK.
• ICT DISSEMINATES INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE: MAKES KNOWLEDGE AVAILABLE AND MAKES WORKS EASIER INCREASE THE E-LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENTS