INFLUENCE OF ICT ON STUDENTS’ LEARNING BEHAVIOR (GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS)
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
The role ICT play in the educational and learning environment cannot be over emphasized. The use of ICT in modern learning environment ranges from slice use of computers in practical aspects to an online learning experience which enhances and improves students’ intellectual and learning behavior (Smith, 2003).
With the introduction of computers, the precursor of our modern-day ICT, and the promising potentials of computer-based instruction and learning, many researchers and funding agencies were led to invest much of their resources to investigate the possibility of computers replacing teachers in key instructional roles. Moreover, many people believe that computers should be brought into the education arena simply because “they are there” and the resultant perpetuation of the myth those students would benefit quantitatively from computers by simply providing them with the software and hardware for an effective learning process (Wheeler, 2010).
We are living in a constantly evolving digital world. ICT has an impact on nearly every aspect of our lives – from working to socializing, learning to playing. The digital age has transformed the way young people communicate, network, seek help, access information and learn. We must recognize that young people are now an online population and Internet access is through variety of means, such as computers, TV and mobile phones (Tapscott, 2005).
As technology becomes more and more embedded in our culture, we must provide our learners with relevant and contemporary experiences that allow them to successfully engage with technology and prepare them for life after school. It is widely recognized that learners are motivated and purposefully engaged in the learning process when concepts and skills are underpinned with technology and sound pedagogy. Learning and teaching aim to provide resources for practitioners, parents and pupils to engage with these technologies in order to inform and enhance the learning experience (Wesley, Krockover & Hicks, 2008).
The use of ICT has a positive influence on both students’ achievement, motivation and learning process. Although classrooms are considered a face-to-face learning environment, yet the installation of ICT equipment such as web-based tools and other technologies positively influence students’ blended learning situation.
