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Technology in the Curriculum Mandate
Within the Instructional Services Department, Technology in the Curriculum's mandate is to facilitate the integration of Information and Communication Technology tools into the classroom curriculum, so as to enhance student achievement.
What is ICT?
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a term used to include a wide range of technologies - print, digital and visual media - for storing, retrieving, sending and transferring information. (Ontario School Library Association: Information Studies K-Grade 12, 1999)
The focus includes all tools which enhance "information literacy", including computer hardware and software, scanners, digital cameras, projection devices, interactive whiteboards, PDA technology, the Internet and Web 2.0 tools.
What is "Information Literacy"?
"Increasing reliance on computers, telecommunication networks, and information technologies in society and the workplace makes it essential for students to become computer literate and to develop “information literacy” skills. Information literacy is the ability to access, select, gather, critically evaluate, create, and communicate information, and to use the information obtained to solve problems and make decisions. In preparation for further education, employment, citizenship, and lifelong learning, students must be capable of deriving meaning from information by using a wide variety of information literacy skills." (Ontario Ministry of Education: Program
Planning and Assessment, 2000)
Why use ICT? ... and... What does the Pope Say?
"I am conscious of those who constitute the so-called digital generation and I would like to share with them, in particular, some ideas concerning the extraordinary potential of the new technologies, if they are used to promote human understanding and solidarity. These technologies are truly a gift to humanity and we must endeavour to ensure that the benefits they offer are put at the service of all human individuals and communities, especially those who are most disadvantaged and vulnerable." (Pope Benedict XVI, 43rd World Communications Day, May 24, 2009.) index_benxvi.jpg
"Technology can be used to enhance instruction and expand the limits of the existing curriculum. As an information tool, it can be used to obtain, organize, manipulate and communicate knowledge and information, address the range of differing learning styles and expand student's access to the world." (H. Daniels, M. Kaufman, J. Naylor and E. Whelihan. "Planning for technology: Circa 1992." SIGTC Connections, Vol. 8, No. 4, 1992. p. 29)
"The use of computers can extend and enrich students' learning in important and unique ways. Whenever possible, therefore, students should be encouraged to use computers." (The Ontario Curriculum, Social Studies Grades 1-6, History and Geography, Grades 7-8)
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