Prioritising the Use of ICT

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has completely metamorphosised the process of education system. With the advancement of ICT gadgets, the education system has taken a paradigm shift from traditional to digital teaching learning. It has made the teaching-learning process more effective and productive. The outbreak of the Covid-19 has caused a huge problem to the educational institutions. Most governments around the world have temporarily closed educational Institutions in an attempt to contain the spread of Covid-19 pandemic.

According to the study, these nationwide closures are impacting over 60% of the world’s student population. During this lockdown ICT has become a fundamental instrument in imparting education to the students. Undoubtedly, ICT has introduced a new way of learning such as, distance learning and virtual learning. Though the institutions in Nagaland are temporarily suspended, the teachers with the use of ICT are able to work from home and help students in their studies.

With the inception of ICT in the present education system many teachers are reluctant to adopt the new way of using ICT in teaching learning process. Lack of knowledge and skills in integrating ICT in pedagogical practice is one factor for preventing majority of teachers from adopting ICT. Many teachers feel stagnant and are more comfortable with traditional way of teaching rather than using ICT in the teaching-learning process. During this lockdown period teachers are compelled to go live stream for online classes but due to lack of competence many teachers are finding it difficult to handle ICT tools. But in spite of numerous challenges and difficulties the teachers are working tirelessly to impart quality education to the students during this lockdown period.

Prioritising the use of ICT in the field of education is the need of the hour.
Many institutions in Nagaland are still lacking behind in promoting the use of ICT for educational purposes. Every school and college in Nagaland should aim to foster better infrastructure in order to enhance the knowledge and skills of using ICT in the near future. Teachers need to be confident enough and be open minded to this new approach of teaching. In order to bring transformation and to improve education in all levels the teachers should be empowered with the latest technology.

Lulu Dozo
Assistant Professor
Immanuel College