ICT Fundamentals
ICT Fundamentals – Child Development & Pedagogy
Understanding ICT (Information & Communication Technology)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Meaning | ICT refers to technologies used for storing, processing, transmitting and accessing information. |
| Components | Hardware, Software, Internet, Networks, Digital Devices |
| Educational Role | Supports interactive learning, digital content delivery, and assessment |
| Special Education Link | Provides assistive technologies for Children With Special Needs (CWSN) |
Memory Line: ICT = Hardware + Software + Network + Data
Exam Trap: ICT is not only computers – it includes communication devices and digital networks also.
Computer Hardware, Software, Input and Output Devices
| Type | Examples | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware | CPU, Monitor, Keyboard | Physical parts of computer |
| Software | Windows, MS Office | Programs that control hardware |
| Input Devices | Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone | Used to enter data |
| Output Devices | Monitor, Printer, Speakers | Used to display results |
Memory Line: Hardware = Touch, Software = Commands
Special Education Focus: Braille keyboard and screen readers help visually impaired learners.
Internet and Netiquette
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Internet | Global network connecting computers for information sharing |
| Browser | Software to access websites (Chrome, Edge) |
| Search Engine | Helps find information (Google, Bing) |
| Netiquette | Rules for responsible online behavior |
Memory Line: Netiquette = Internet Etiquette
Exam Trap: Netiquette includes cyber safety and respectful online communication.
Content Creation Tools & Open Educational Resources (OER)
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Word Processing | Text content (MS Word, Google Docs) |
| Spreadsheets | Data and scores (Excel) |
| Presentations | Teaching slides (PowerPoint) |
| OER | Free learning materials for all |
Memory Line: OER = Free + Open + Reusable Learning Content
Special Education Focus: OER provides adapted learning materials for CWSN.
ICT Policies in Education (India)
| Policy | Year | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| National ICT Policy in Education | 2012 | Integration of ICT in schools |
| NEP | 2020 | Digital learning platforms & inclusive access |
| DIKSHA Platform | 2017 | Digital content for teachers and students |
| PM eVidya | 2020 | Digital education for remote learners |
Memory Line: DIKSHA + PM eVidya = Digital Learning Backbone
Exam Trap: NEP 2020 emphasizes ICT for equitable access for CWSN also.
ICT in Teaching–Learning Process
- Supports student-centered and interactive learning
- Enables digital assessments and progress tracking
- Facilitates blended and online learning systems
- Encourages collaborative learning methods
Memory Line: ICT makes learning Anytime – Anywhere – Any device
Special Education Link: Audio-visual content helps children with learning difficulties.
Educational Games, Quizzes, and Digital Tools
| Tool Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Educational Games | Improves engagement and conceptual learning |
| Online Quizzes | Supports formative assessment |
| Simulations | Explains complex concepts visually |
| Interactive Apps | Helps personalized learning |
Memory Line: Game + Quiz + Activity = Active Learning
Special Education Focus: Visual and audio games support children with cognitive and hearing difficulties.
ICT Support for Special Education
| Technology | Supports |
|---|---|
| Screen Readers | Visually impaired learners |
| Speech-to-Text | Students with writing difficulty |
| Augmentative Communication | Children with speech impairment |
| Digital Hearing Aids | Hearing impaired learners |
Memory Line: ICT = Inclusion Tool for CWSN
Exam Trap: Assistive technologies are part of ICT in Special Education.