ICT “no replacement” to teachers

Posted 29 Jan 2009

ICT is an "incredible tool" but "no replacement" to actual education professionals, it has been suggested.

Although some may be worried that technology could take away the personal benefits of face-to-face teaching, this is not necessarily the case, explained chief executive and creative director at teachers.tv Andrew Bethell.

Using ICT could allow pupils to create their own way of studying that suits their personal requirements and preferred learning methods, he continued.

Overall, there is some resistance to technology being used and implemented but these quibbles are not over ideological implications, Mr Bethall added.

"The days of the robot teacher … [are] many years ahead," he said, going onto conclude this concept was unlikely because in order to improve education, real tutors are needed.

If students enjoy learning through technology, they may wish to complete an online TEFL course, which might enable them to go abroad and teach English.

Teachers.tv is a UK television channel funded by the Department for Education and Skills aimed at those working in education. There are also currently over 2,700 programmes available to download on its website.

Category: Teaching and Learning