ICT as a Communicative Tool in Teaching and Learning

ICT as an Communicative Tool

Reflection: ICT as an Communicative Tool

Digital technology as a communication tool is the use of digital instruments to support individuals or groups in interacting, co-operating, and sharing information within learning environments. Some examples of these technologies are instant messaging software, discussion forums, e-mail, learning management systems like Moodle or Google Classroom, and video conferencing applications like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. Geographical and temporal constraints in education are eliminated through ICT, facilitating real-time as well as asynchronous communication.

ICT's role as a communication tool is critical to enabling social interaction, collaboration, and learner engagement—each of which is critical to building constructivist models of learning theory. It engages students to be part of the process of creating knowledge by inquiry, conversation, and the sharing of ideas with teachers and others. The software helps teachers to manage tasks, share materials, and offer immediate feedback, all of which contribute to the overall teaching-learning process. Collaborative tools like Padlet, Miro, and Google Docs facilitate peer-to-peer learning and co-creation in collaborative group projects and assist students in becoming familiar with job settings that require teamwork.

ICT as a medium for communication has several benefits, such as better feedback systems, enhanced collaboration, and support towards inclusive learning—particularly for children in remote locations or those with disabilities. Distractions, unequal availability of devices and reliable internet, and difficulty in upholding academic integrity in the process of online communication are drawbacks, though. Further, development of social skills may be inhibited at times by excessive overdependence on computer communication.

Teachers have to craft intentionally interactive tasks like group work, peer review, and online forums in order to use communicative ICT effectively. Teachers must be trained for conducting equal participation, employing communications technologies for testing, and managing online discussion. There should be precise rules addressing digital manners as well as those manipulable behaviors online in a respectful and productive work environment.

ICT has, to my opinion, greatly improved my ability to interact and share with students outside the classroom, making the learning situation more engaging and collaborative. Communicative ICTs allow professional communities of practice and learning networks to be established at the community level, neutralizing geographical isolation and facilitating the sharing of resources. Significantly, while such resources have so much promise, their utility is contingent on careful usage, balanced accessibility, and ongoing instructional facilitation.

Telegram (social media) as an Informative Tool

How we use Telegram (social media) in teaching and learning?

Telegram can be effectively integrated into teaching and learning as a dynamic digital communication and collaboration tool. It enables educators to establish dedicated channels and group chats to disseminate announcements, learning resources, and assignments efficiently. These features promote an interactive learning environment in which students can engage in academic discussions, seek clarification, and receive prompt feedback from instructors. Telegram supports a wide range of multimedia formats—including documents, images, audio recordings, and videos—which enhances the delivery of instructional content and accommodates diverse learning preferences. Moreover, the platform's built-in bots can be utilized to administer automated quizzes, reminders, and revision tools, thereby increasing learner engagement and supporting formative assessment. Poll and quiz functions further allow educators to evaluate student comprehension in real time. Telegram facilitates both synchronous (face to face) and asynchronous (online) communication, making it adaptable to various teaching modalities and student schedules. Nonetheless, educators must address potential challenges such as student distraction, the need for digital literacy, and unequal access to the platform. With thoughtful implementation and effective moderation, Telegram serves as a valuable educational tool that enhances communication, supports collaborative learning, and contributes to more flexible and inclusive teaching practices.