INFormation and Communication Technology

Introduction

Use of information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) has added a new dimension to the teaching – learning process. Teachers have now access to a variety of ICT, which provides unmatched opportunities for simulation of reality within controlled instructional settings. Teachers can now easily facilitate the process of learning by building awareness on contextual issues, help children learn the concepts acquire theoretical knowledge about curriculum areas and also provide individualized instruction to learners. Computer enabled learning is an emerging medium to support further learning as well as self directed learning.

Headstart

The State in the year 2000 initiated a computer enabled education programme to school children called “Headstart”. The programme uses computer as a teaching learning tool at elementary education level. The main intention is to bridge the digital divide between the urban and rural student population in terms of access to modern technology aids in education. The Headstart is a move from computer education to computer enabled education.

Headstart also aims to develop computer enabled self learning approach in a peer situation. Studies conducted in headstart indicate substantial improvement in student’s achievements and also increase in the number of first division pass outs.

The programme is in operation since November operational in 648 JSKs, it was expanded to 2070 more JSKs during 2003. During the year 2005-06 it was again expanded in 494 JSKs of the State. As of date 3212 JSKs have been developed as Headstart centre. Interactive Multi Media Rich Lessons (IMMRLs) and video films for students and teachers have been developed by Rajya Shiksha Kendra to support teaching-learning process in classrooms. The programme has been appreciated by MHRD has received national acclaim and is perhaps the largest computer enabled education programme in India. During the year 2007-2008 the programme will be expanded under the innovations head.

Provisions has been made for equipment (3 Computers, 3 UPS and 1 Printer) furniture, electrification and renovation of existing room for new Headstart.

During the year 2006-07 Headstart training was conducted into selected regional training centres of the State. The training was for new Headstart JSKs. The training addressed pedagogy, management and technology area associated with Headstart. During 2007-08 a need-based training of teachers in the use of IT in education will be conducted. The training will be for educational managers, teachers educators and teachers working in the JSKs of the State. Special hardware training for teachers who have already some professional qualification in computers will be organised. These teachers will work as resource persons for these training courses.

In order to motivate talented teachers and develop creativity among students and teachers a digital content development contest has been planned by the Rajya Shiksha Kendra. The annual event will boost up talented teachers to show their creativity. The contest will be organised each year.

The IMMRLs developed by RSK are being used by UP, Delhi, Bihar, Punjab and Rajasthan and some NGOs working in the area of ICT.

Satellite Communications

Teleconferencing is a regular feature for direct interaction with district & sub district functionaries. During the year 2006-07. 20 teleconferencing programs were conducted. Every month at least two teleconferencing programs are held. The DRS in extended C band are located in 38 DIETs. For the purpose of teacher’s training, teacher educators training and monitoring of various activities, teleconferencing will continue to be used in a regular manner. The facility will also be used during large scale induction refresher training of teachers.

EduSat

During 2005-06, 47 BRCs and 10 DIETs are being braught under EduSat. The job has been entrusted to Antarix Corporation, Banglore and is likely to be commissioned soon. During 2006-07, 250 BRCs will be provided SITs facilities.

On commissioning of SITs in all blocks will be used for the training of teachers in distance mode. The BRCs staff will be trained in the use of SITs for training purpose. Under EduSat a teaching end will be developed in the Rajya Shiksha Kendra, Bhopal.

Audio and Radio

“Gyaanarjan” is the radio programme specially designed to cater the area-specific needs of teachers of Bhopal district.

These programmes are designed by taking help of subject experts and also their participation during broadcasts. The duration of this FM ratio based broadcast of “Gyaanarjan” is usually from the month of September to February (six months).