ICT: no longer an optional extra A case study in Ethiopia

Background:...an optional extra?

Calculator Digital watch CLC Research tools Learning resources* IWB YouTube Facebook Instant messaging Mobile phone Texting MP3 Background: how central is ICT?

An appetite for technology… Melkamu Hailu, “Software should be available not just at university, but also students at secondary school should have the opportunity to use it.” Mekelle University, Ethiopia Albert P’Rayan, “There is a big appetite for integrating technology into teaching. Teachers as well as students are eager for access to ICT materials.” Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, Rwanda

Project location

Project partners the two universities the funding body Clarity

Project programs Grammar Exam preparationStudy skillsReading

Project stages SchedulingSelection of programsInstallationInitial useExternal trainingIntegration into mainstream teachingMonitoring and follow-upPhase 2: migration online

Project leaders: Cathy & Tsegay

Challenges 1 Challenges: FUNDING “... quality educational content is transmitted via satellite and shown on flat-panel plasma screens in remote rural classrooms in Ethiopia – some situated three days’ travel from the nearest town.” Cisco Systems case study, /wp/Ethiopia_SS_0320a.pdf

Challenges 2 Challenges: IT SKILLS Challenges: IT SKILLS “Generally, lack of computer skills is a big problem as it makes the users slower to learn about and use the software.” Solution: Classes in computer skills

Challenges 3 Challenges: LACK OF FOCUS Challenges: LACK OF FOCUS Solution: “There is one Clarity training afternoon each week where the centre is manned by one or two staff members who give advice on appropriate programs and levels for individual users.”

Challenges 4 Challenges: VIRUSES Challenges: VIRUSES Solution: 1.Using operating systems integrity programs, eg DeepFreeze 2.Migrating online

Benefits: general Enables differentiation Boosts motivation Is renewable

Benefits: language Listening Grammar Exam preparation

Benefits: exam preparation

Conclusion “This is very important for all teachers. In a world where everything is getting dependent on technology, the teaching/learning process is also changing very fast as we become more and more exposed to these interactive technologies.”