The Internet In

Teaching and
Learning; Computers
In the Classrooms
Learning Objectives
 At the end of this lesson, you should be
able to:
1. Discuss how indispensable internet and
computers are in the classroom teaching
and learning.
2. Stress the pros and cons of internet and
computer use in the classroom; and
3. Design internet or web-based assignments
and projects.
 The Internet In the Classroom
 The internet, or interconnected network, is a global-
wide area that connects computer network across
the world (a.k.a a network of networks). Its
“backbone” is made up of high-bandwidth data
lines. Online services of the internet include: web, e-
mail, social media, online gaming, and software
updates.
 Hubert and Harriet (1998) describe the internet as
an information delivery system. The Internet prods its
users to become informed citizen.
The use of internet in the classroom is
beneficial for the following reasons:
1. It is a powerful force that encourages students to learn
2. It provides an almost limitless wellspring of knowledge
3. It supports partnership in learning
4. It holds control over learning
5. It is interactive
6. It reaches even the remotest place for publication
7. Prime information are updated
 Computers in Teaching and Learning
 Rallis (2000) proposes ways by which faculty can use computers to assist in teaching
and learning:
1. Replacing writing on the chalkboard, white board, overhead with presentations which
may be sent to students later on.
2. Create PowerPoint presentations that replace slides, pre-prepared overhead
transparencies, and even video.
3. Design course web pages with the following; syllabus, class schedule, assignments links
to9 reading etc.
4. Requires students to use the Internet outside of class by perusing required readings and
by conducting student research.
5. Create online discussion forum where students may continue their discussion outside
the class.
6. Require students to make online portfolios of their work.
7. Send class emails alias where the instructor may provide updates and reminders to
students.
 Some Concerns about the Use of
Computers
1. Classroom set-up- the room may not be spacious enough to
accommodate everyone.
2. Equipment- not all equipment may be available.
3. Internet issues- students overly dependent on the internet; they may
plagiarize at times.
4. Accessibility and equity issues- not all students have access to the
internet off campus.
5. Instructor use- the creation and maintenance of web-based materials
may be time consuming and expensive.
6. Academic snobbery- others may perceive the use of computers as
attempts to be "showy" or spoon-feeding.
Digital Tablet and iPad
There are number of reasons why tablets and iPad
have gained popularity in the classroom. These
include:
1. Application the complement student work and
learning with ease.
2. Almost all students have these gadgets.
3. These gadgets have been proven to improve
literacy.
4. These gadgets maybe used for sharing and
demonstration.
5. They are extremely easy to use. They allow
everyone to connect with one another- something
that allows them to collaborate.
6. There is an application for grading student's work.
7. They are helpful for students with disabilities.
8. They are environmentally safe.
Designing Internet Projects and Assignments
 Mac Manus (2000) suggests that in designing Internet projects
and assignments, the following tips may be considered:
1. Look for the resources relevant to the discipline and course
topic on the web.
2. Find out how the tools and resources will help the students to
craft new things.
3. Before designing one or more Internet projects, draft learning
goals material to the objectives of the course.
4. Make sure that students completely understand how to use
the tools they are asked to employ.
5. Outcomes assessment is imperative to detect if the new types
of assignments realize their objectives.
Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC)
 Computer-mediated communication (CMC) is defined as
any human communication that transpires through the
utilization of two or more electronic devices.
 Synchronous. Synchronous messaging involves an
interlocutor that waits for the server to respond to a
message. Synchronous communication, simply put, is a
two-way communication.
Advantages of the tools:
1. Immediacy and spontaneity of real-time communication;
2. Ability to brainstorm and receive immediate responses;
and
3. Lack of expense (if using text-based conferencing)
 Asynchronous. Asynchronous communication involves
someone that does not wait for a message from the
server. Asynchronous messaging simply stated is a one
way communication.
Advantages of using the tools:
1. Independence of specific time and place requirements
2. Ease of student-teacher and student-student communication 3
3. Promotion of thoughtful discussions
4. Facilitation of students collaborative projects
5. Online submission of assignments; and
6. File sharing
Designing Web-Based Assignment
Mac Manus (2000) also outlines some of trust many
ways of designing web-based assignments. These are
as follows:
1. Finding and evaluating information on the web.
2. Using the web as a research tool for critical essays.
3. Applying analytical frameworks from the course to
analyze/critique the internet itself.
4. Using student web publishing as an assessment
device.
5. Using online databases or resource sites.
Designing Web-based
Assignments: Additional Tips
1. Provide an online syllabus
2. Provide supplementary links.
3. Provide online course resources.
4. Provide interactive exercises and/or
tests