The Situation – ICT4KIDS

What is ICT and why is it important?

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)infrastructure is an ecosystem where access to the internet, mobile connections and different services and devices such as laptops or computers are needed. ICT should foster innovation and competition. Nowadays, technology is integrated with our lives, therefore, engaging with technology in the classroom helps students cope with the world outside. Computer based-learning is a part of the ICT infrastructure and it has many benefits:

Using technology to learn gives access to information outside of books and different methods to learn a concept.
It is also more interactive, helping teachers to find creative ways to teach and it keeps students motivated.
It provides interactive learning experiences, it allows students to explore beyond their textbooks and find different interests.
A study by Unicef shows that “A child who has the digital tools to succeed early in life is 5 times more likely to be in the higher-income job.” (Unicef-A world ready to learn advocacy)
ICT education improves a child’s critical thinking, which is important, for them to navigate through this Information age
Digital skills will also play an important role in the kids’ future work life

The Digital Divide

0
%

of students have access to computers

0
%

of students have access to computer/laptops

In India VS. In Finland

0
%

of students have an internet connection.

0
%

of students have a broadband speed of more than 10mbps

Source: European Commision (2011-2012) https://tinyurl.com/uyvxxpn https://counterview.org/2019/10/21/constraints-of-digital-literacy-in-rural-india-only-12-3-of-students-have-access-to-computers/

The given comparison is just one example of the Digital Divide between two different regions.

The ‘digital divide’ refers to the unequal development in having access to digital infrastructure in society.

Inspire.
Empower.
Engage.

ICT4KIDS aims to bridge this digital divide by using information and communication technology (ICT) to improve educational outcomes and provide opportunities for students in developing countries.

ICT has brought advantages, especially in education where it can provide equal learning opportunities. Developed countries have always set great importance to the use of ICT in education. Integrating it into education requires sustainable ICT infrastructure and the application of an ICT curriculum.

The majority of students in India attend a rural school, these schools do not have a basic ICT infrastructure. Especially the rural schools in India are not equipped with infrastructure and basic facilities. Rural school’s opportunities have been limited by the resources found within the walls of a school.

As known, technology-enabled learning allows kids to tap resources anywhere in the world, starting with their own communities. For example, with high-speed internet access, a student interested in learning computer science can take a course online in a school that lacks the funds for a teacher with the appropriate skills to teach that particular course. To remain globally competitive and develop engaged citizens, the underprivileged kids coming to these rural schools also need 21st-century competencies and expertise throughout the learning experience.

Sources:

Education. “Rubaru 2020.” EVidyaloka, www.evidyaloka.org/?home=true.

“e-Smart Classroom in Government School.” The Hindu, The Hindu, 30 July 2010, www.thehindu.com/features/education/school/e-smart-classroom-in-Government-school/article16215568.ece.

“Using ICT to Improve Learning Outcomes in India’s Schools.” ORF, ORF, 10 July 2019, www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/using-ict-to-improve-learning-outcomes-in-indias-schools-52927/?amp.

“ICT in Education.” ICT in Education | Teachers of India, www.teachersofindia.org/en/article/ict-education.