LB #9: Computers as Information and Communication Technology

We learned in EdTech1 the role of computers in education. Until the nineties, instructional media and educational communication media were still distinguishable. The former included audio-visual aids that helped in the teaching-learning process such as blackboard, film and video. The latter comprise the media of communication to audiences including learners using the print, film, radio, television or satellite means of communication.

Then at the turn of the 21st century, such distinctions merged owing to the advent of the personal computer. The user has before him a tool for both audio-visual creations and media communication. (See diagram below)

The Computer as a:

Communication Media                  Audio-visual Media

- Internet                                          - Multimedia
- E-mail (text and video)                   - Text, sound, graphics, charts, photos
- Chat rooms                                    - Powerpoint Presentation
- Blog sites                                       - CD, VCD, DVD Player
- News services (print, video clip)     - Educational Software
- Music/movie/television room           - Educational websites
                                                        - Softwares, coursewares
                                                        - School registration/records/accounting