ICT-Enhanced Instruction in COVID-19 Lockdown: A Conceptual Paper

Abstract

Purpose: The general increase in popularity of information and communication technology (ICT) leads to its integration into the education systems worldwide. Nowadays, educational institutions uses relevant ICT tools to create, read, store, update, and communicate information as well as enrich educational management decisions. Furthermore, ICT serves as an important instrument for teaching and learning communications in educational system especially with the evolution of flipped classroom and blended learning to complimenting the normal classroom. This study is to identify the instructional role of ICT in the education system in the lockdown for the COVID-19 pandemic globally. 

Design/Methodology/Approach: The study covers novel approaches in the use of ICT for instruction, its role in educational access and quality of education as well as learners’ academic achievement in the lockdown period for COVID-19 pandemic

Findings/Result: The use of ICT in education systems and its integration in instructional services results in agile, effective, efficient, and flexible learning. The use of this technology enhances accessibility and quality of education in the COVID-19 lockdown period. ICT eliminates the traditional face-to-face instructions by creating virtual learning environment whereby educators and learners interact at their comforts in a seamless manner. Courses can be taken online at less cost far cheaper than the traditional physical learning environment. Also, ICT promotes learners’ motivation as well as enhances learners’ engagement in learning activities ultimately facilitates the shift to the desired learner-centred method. Therefore, when ICT is appropriately utilized in educational systems, it serves as an instrument for enhancing the quality of education and the general transformation of educational systems for enhanced students’ academic achievement.

Originality/Value: A flexible and efficient interaction among educational stakeholders; educational administrators, parents, educators and learners is a critical factor for enhancing learners’ academic achievement in the COVID-19 lockdown. In conclusion, this study recommends further empirical studies on the impact of ICT on learners’ academic achievement during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Paper Type: Conceptual Research.