2A-4 Activity 5: Using Spreadsheet as an administrative tool

In my estimation, the spreadsheet is a very effective and time saving administrative tool. It can help to ease the burden on administrators when they have to prepare administative records on students and teachers. Different forms can be prepared and stored in a database and retrieved when they are needed. for example: the administrator cn prepare a form for teacher attendance and rather than creating a separate one for each month, he or she would retrieve the saved template and just add the information for the current month. In completing the activity I realised that the formulas can sometimes be very time consuming to complete but once you understand them, it makes the whole process very simple.

2A-4 Activity 4 B: Integrating the Word Processor

Integrating the word processor into my lesson was a great experience for me. I was very impressed to see the way in which the students responded to the lesson. They showed a high level of motivation as they were actively engaged in a lesson which centered around their involvement throughout. Three of the computers failed to work during the lesson and students had to share computers,nevertheless; the lesson went as planned.

Activity 3: 2A_4: Word Processor in Lesson Preparation

Word Processor can help to make lesson preparation very easy. Once you are able to use this tool effectively, you have sveral features such as spell checker and grammar checker which can enable you to correct any errors in your lesson. Different diagrams, shapes, tables and pictures can also be added from clip art and word art to enhance your lesson appearance. You can create tests, notes and worksheets using this great tool.

Activity 4a- 1B_3: How students use ICT in their learning?

Students that use ICT in a variety of way in their learning. These include the following:

1. Writing letters and poems
2. Creating projects, posters and newsletters
3. Researching information
4. Communication with techers and peers
5. Journalling or reflecting on classroom activities
6. Making classroom presentaions on various topics
7. Making movies
8. Completing assignments

Activity 2-1B_3: Two Generations of Teachers- Differences in Attitudes towards ICT

Based on the article read, the following conclusions were drawn:

1.   Good networking and productive relationships among teachers, support sharing of ideas and practices which can improve teachers’ confidence and attitude towards ICT.

2.   Technical support and assistance coupled with the availability of resources in school and home, as well as the requisite training given to teachers can be the main source contributing to the appreciation or rejection of ICT by teachers.

Activity 2- 2A_4 Word Processor as an administrative tool

The word processor can greatly assist the administrator in carrying out his or her roles. This tool can help to make the preparation of agendas, reports, forms, examination scripts and letters much easier than if they were done manually. It can also help to keep track of staff and students as well as day to day activities of the school. Communication with the various stakeholders can be greatly improved as a result of using the word processor which has grammar  and spell check features.

Activity 1- 2A_4:How ICT can support the roles of the educator and Reflective Comments

From the group discussions, it was quite evident that ICT can assist the educator in executing a variety of roles. It can enable them to make teaching and learning more interactive. It can also assist them in managing the school plant, record keeping and communicating with stakeholders. Overall, it can enhance the teaching learning environment and motivate students to actively construct knowledge.

Activity 1- 1B_ Is it possible for a Developing country to compete with Developed countries in integrating ICT in schools?

In my opinion, I believe that a developing nation can compete with developed nations once the necessary resources and training as well as committment and vision of the poweres that be are put in place. As mentioned before, it is a difficult and long process but it is quite achievable.

Activity 1- 1B_3 Audit my schools' ICT use( What they have and what they do with them)

I am presently the Education Officer with responsibility for seventeen schools. Each school is equipped with computers and internet access and in some instances Computer Access Centres. These schools use the computers and internet to communicate any information to me as well as prepare records and  submit reports to the ministry when called upon to do so. This helps to reduce the amount of paper that we use and also increases efficiency.