Dear reader, my 49th treatise on CBE focuses on information and communication (ICT) and its integration into teaching and learning in Senior School. In this educational dispensation, teachers can make wise use of technology: to plan, deliver and assess learning. As well as to enhance strong learning experiences.
Right at the onset, it is instructive to note that ICT integration should not disrupt teaching and learning processes. In lieu, it should enhance the double-pronged process. Too true, in Good to Great, Jim Collins writes why some companies, organisations and institutions take the leap while others do not. So, he cites culture of discipline, confrontation of brutal facts, the hedgehog concept, the flywheel and doom loop, level-5 leadership, the window-and-mirror concept and technology accelerators. The putative author contends that the good-to-great institutions think differently about the integral role of technology. So, they embrace technology as an actual accelerator.
Ideally, ICT means a lot in teaching and learning because schools are dealing with a generation born in an epoch of terrific technological advancement. Then, integration of ICT into education promotes active and collaborative learning. It makes education interactive, accessible and efficient. It enhances digital literacy and learner engagement. It also expands access to diverse resources and learning styles. So, when we spare some time, and pore over the policy document titled Guidelines for Implementation of Senior School Education (2025), we will see how main mandarins at the Ministry of Education (MoE) recommend ICT facilities and digital devices as part of the basic requirements of infrastructure for the pathways, tracks and subjects offered in Senior School.
Examples of ICT facilities and digital devices used in teaching and learning include: computers—desktops or laptops—which can be used for research, typing assignments, coding, accessing educational software, et cetera. Tablets and iPads are portable devices that both educators and learners can use as digital textbooks, apps and in online learning. Then, smartphones allow students to access educational apps and communication tools. They can also join and learn online through virtual conferencing tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, Skype, Meta Platform — Facebook Live — and YouTube Live. Likewise, teachers can make wise use of productivity tools such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, database management software, desktop publishing, photo editing software, graphic software and Microsoft 365 Office.
Then, it is important to consider communication tools such as e-mail, telephone, mobile phones, SMS/Text messaging and social networking. Withal, there are social networking platforms such as Twitter (X platform), Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and TikTok. Then, WhatsApp, Google Docs, OneDrive, Padlet, and Trello are wonderful collaborative tools. Likewise, Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox are good for cloud storage. Additionally, preceptors can make wise use of search tools such as e-library, Google Scholar, Bing and DuckDuckGo.
Consequently, there are creativity and content-creation tools like Canva, CapCut, and digital cameras. Teachers can also explore assessment tools such as E-portfolios, Kahoot, Mentimetor, E-forms, polls, Quizizz, Socrative and digital rubrics. More importantly, Principals can make good use of Learning Management Systems such as the Kenya Education Cloud (KEC-LMS) platform, Google Classroom, Moodle and Edmodo.
Moreover, teachers can use LCD projectors in PowerPoint presentations to display digital content and videos to a large group of learners. Schools should have data storage devices such as CDs, DVDs and memory sticks. Interactive whiteboards or smartboards are digital boards that can be of help to teachers and students while interacting with relevant content. Internet connectivity (Wi-Fi and broadband) enables learners to access online resources, e-learning platforms, and research materials. Schools should have printers to use in printing assessments, notes and learning materials. There is a need to think about scanners used to convert physical documents into a digital format.
Finally, there are digital cameras and webcams, used for recording lessons, video-conferencing and for the creation of digital content. Headphones and microphones — are needed for are useful in language learning, listening activities and online meetings. It is important to procure education software and applications, which are programmes used in teaching Mathematics, Sciences and Languages. Learning Management Systems (LMSs) are equally important platforms used to manage assignments, assessments and communication. Schools should have video-conferencing tools: to be used for virtual classes and remote learning. Advisably, schools should focus on digital libraries and e-books, providing wide access to books and academic materials. Servers and school networks are equally important for storage and the management of learning resources and data in the institution.
By Victor Ochieng’
Victor Ochieng’ rolls out talks and training services. He retools educators on CBE/CBC. vochieng.90@gmail.com. 0704420232
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