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158 Parker
“One particular factor is the growing sophistication of human
activity under the impact of the new Information Technologies and
the resulting need for continuous, lifelong professional development.
Another factor is the internal urge within the system of
education for improvement to survive in the period of dramatic
external changes”
Marold (2002) argued that the personal computer is the “universal tool” of the
21 st century. Ndahi (1999) also noted that technology influences on learning and
teaching are more evident within educational institutions. However, some educators
still continue to rely on traditional content delivery methods and refuse to accept the
technologies available. The reliance on only traditional delivery methods might
therefore have a negative impact on tertiary institutions, which have the responsibility
to reach students at any time and any place. Technological innovations in the
telecommunications industry have improved teacher-student interaction (Ndahi,
1999).
Slay and Jones et al. mentioned that educators are evaluating the use of the
Internet in creating an effective learning environment. Tertiary institutions could
maintain effective, current and high quality education if Internet technologies are
embraced (Slay, 1997; Jones et al., 2000).
The web medium has the potential for group and collaborative work with staff
and students both locally and between institutions and it is natural for education
institutions to have adapted personal computers to its educational needs (Marold,
2002).
Cuban (1993) supported the above mentioned and added some goals for the
introduction of computers in education:
• Keep the education system at the forefront of technological development and
students’ skills up-to-date with those expected in the workforce.
• Increase efficiency and productivity in teaching and learning.
• Enable more self-directed learning, with students as active learners assisted
by teachers to construct their own understanding.
The above literature indicates how some authors recommended that technology
and the Internet be used within tertiary institutions. However the costs involved,
with these technologies, has become a barrier with the full realization of usefulness
of technology within education. Technology also needs to enhance the learning
process rather than becoming another delivery medium. Quality of learning should
also be assured by the introduction of technology within tertiary institutions.
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