Communication Technology Education Research Articles

Implementing Virtual Reality in Special Education: Teachers’ Perspectives

ABSTRACT Developments in Virtual Reality (VR) technology have led to an increased use in research, practice, and for entertainment purposes. There is also a perceived applicability and suitability of the technology for educational purposes. For VR to be properly implemented in schools and special education, there is a need for understanding what teachers, special education teachers, and student teachers view as important implementation factors. We interviewed a total of 13 Norwegian teachers in which eight were interviewed individually and five were interviewed as a group. We thematically analysed the data, which resulted in five themes of implementation factors: training and knowledge, networks, resources, positive attitudes, and technological features. This study provides the educational-technology community with important insights from stakeholders for a successful implementation of VR in education. The themes elucidate the success factors, possible pitfalls, or challenges in implementing VR, and the perceived workload for the school personnel. Our findings are in line with existing research on the implementation of desktop computer technology, and we extended the scope to include VR technology in educational settings.

Leveraging ICT and Generative AI in Higher Education for Sustainable Development: The Case of a Lebanese Private University

This study investigates the interaction of information and communication technology (ICT) and higher education in driving sustainable development, with a special emphasis on the rising significance of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. This quantitative study, conducted in a Lebanese private university, looks into the impact of ICT, specifically generative AI, on promoting sustainability in higher education. A questionnaire was distributed to university instructors to determine how these technologies contribute to sustainable practices in academic environments. The results, which were evaluated using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis, show that ICT tools, professional instructor development, and the upkeep of educational infrastructure all contribute considerably to Lebanon’s sustainable development. Furthermore, integrating generative AI into educational processes has the potential to improve personalized learning, resource efficiency, and content production, all of which contribute to sustainability goals. The study concludes by exploring the findings’ broader implications, acknowledging their shortcomings, and suggesting future research possibilities.

Development of the Volcanic Disaster Risk Reduction Education Program Using the ICT Tool “YOU@RISK Volcanic Disaster Edition” —Practical Verification at a Junior High School in the Mt. Nasu Area—

This study developed a volcanic disaster risk reduction education program that aims to help junior high school students visually understand the risks of volcanic eruptions using map information and acquire independent assessments and actions to protect their own lives from eruption disasters. First, this program analyzed the present state, problems, and educational needs of volcanic disaster risk reduction education in Japan, and thereafter designed the learning content to fuse information and communication technology (ICT) education based on the Global and Innovation Gateway for All (GIGA) School Initiative promoted by Japan with disaster risk reduction education from a geographical viewpoint. We adopted the ADDIE model from instructional design theory to develop the program. An important feature of this program is the realization of geography learning using the “YOU@RISK Volcanic Disaster Edition,” a web-based GIS application developed by the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience (NIED), as an ICT tool. Learners use YOU@RISK on their tablets and perform operations such as visualizing the risk range in the event of a volcanic eruption and searching for appropriate evacuation sites and routes, while acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary for geographical literacy and emergency response actions. The program is able to realize interactive learning, which is a step ahead of education that relies on conventional paper-based hazard maps. Among active volcanoes nationwide, Mt. Nasu was selected as target volcano for this study. In addition, a junior high school located in the area surrounding Mt. Nasu, Nasu Junior High School in Nasu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, was selected as the target school. The program was implemented by teachers using tablets provided for each student at the school. We evaluated the effectiveness of the program by measuring and analyzing the effects of learning through the practice. Consequently, the effectiveness of the volcanic disaster risk reduction education program using ICT was confirmed.

Online environments, social networks and pornography: the role of teachers and managers in the provision of sex and sexuality education in Chilean schools

ABSTRACT Over the last decade, various provisions have been enshrined in law to encourage the implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Comprehensive sexuality Education in Chilean schools. However, it is unknown whether appropriate steps have been taken to advance the right to sex and sexuality education, incorporating the use of ICTs as part of existing plans. The objective of this study was to identify the role that schools and schooling might play in relation to online environments, social networks and pornography as they affect children and adolescents’ sex and sexuality education in Chile. The research took the form of a qualitative study in which 30 education professionals were interviewed to identify needs, challenges and opportunities for incorporating the use of social networks and pornography in sex and sexuality education plans. We found that teachers and school managers rarely intervene in students’ sexualised digital media consumption. While being aware of and concerned about the effects it might have, they broadly delegate responsibility to families. There is a need to create educational communities with a greater knowledge of how to spearhead innovative and participatory internal policies and practices to ensure students’ access to good quality sex and sexuality education in online environments.

Analysis of Ict Learning In Increasing The Intellectual Intelligence of Students In MTSN 4 Aceh Utara

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education aims to provide knowledge and skills to learners in order for them to stay updated on technical advancements that are constantly changing. ICT learning at MTsN 4 Aceh Utara requires a variety of strategies and methods that emphasize the development of thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills to enhance the intellectual intelligence of learners. The research is qualitative and uses methods of comparative analysis, involving students directly in the learning analysis of ICT. The results of the research show that intellectual intelligence has a positive influence in developing critical thinking, creativity, and analytical ability of students in MTsN 4 Aceh Utara. Average percentage results showed 73.3% for the learning material aspects of ICT, 70% for learning methods aspects, and 73,3% for learning evaluation aspects. These findings contributed to the overall improvement of learning quality in MTsN 4 Aceh Utara.

간호대학생을 위한 정보통신과 최신보건의료기술 교육프로그램 개발 및 효과 검증

Purpose : This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effects of an information communication technology and latest healthcare technology education program. Methods : Conducted as a quasi-experimental study with a one-group pretest-posttest design, the study involved 96 grade 2 students. Data were collected from August 28 to December 8., 2023, 14 weeks, 50 minutes per week. The general characteristics of the subjects were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and mean, while the effects on problem-solving ability, critical thinking disposition, nursing information literacy competency, and digital competency assessed using a paired t-test. Results : Nursing students’ problem-solving ability (t＝－4.50, p＜.001), nursing information literacy competency (t＝－5.29, p ＜.001) and digital competency (t＝－3.41, p＜.001) improved after participating in the education program. Conclusion : The information communication technology and latest healthcare technology education program was effective in improving problem-solving ability, nursing information literacy competency, and digital competency of nursing students. This underscores its potential for implementation in educational settings requiring curriculum adjustments to align with evolving learning outcomes.

Assessing the Impact of Mobile Applications on Student Engagement in ICT and Computer Science Education

This study investigates the impact of mobile applications on student engagement in the realms of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Computer Science Education. As the integration of mobile applications in educational settings becomes increasingly prevalent, understanding their influence on student engagement is crucial for optimizing learning experiences. The study employs assess the effectiveness of selected mobile applications aligned with the curriculum. Data analysis focuses on measuring and evaluating student engagement levels. The results reveal shedding light on the implications for enhancing ICT and computer science education. This research contributes to the existing literature by addressing gaps and providing insights into the practical use of mobile applications in educational settings.

Analyzing Email Communication Patterns Among Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology Education (BICTE) Students: A Case Study

This study explores the difficult scenery of email communication between undergraduate students enrolled in the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology Education (BICTE) program within the university. The research explores various facets of email usage, including structure, literacy, and performance, shedding light on the prevalent challenges faced by students in effectively conveying messages. Significant findings encompass issues such as inapt structure, the absence of vital information, empty subjects, casual language, and the tendency to send multiple emails at once. Through the analysis of 175 actual emails exchanged between students and department heads, the study seeks to unravel patterns, trends, and deficiencies in email communication. The identified challenges underscore the importance of enhancing digital literacy and communication skills among BICTE students, addressing the delicate balance between formality and informality in academic emails, and promoting organized correspondence to facilitate a positive and efficient learning environment. The insights gleaned from this research aim to inform strategic improvements in communication training within the BICTE program, ultimately fostering a more effective and professional email communication culture.

Exploring the intersections of TAM and TRI models in middle school VR technology acceptance

BackgroundIn recent years, the attitudes of middle school principals toward virtual reality (VR) have received much attention from the educational technology community. As VR continues to gain popularity in education, researchers have begun to explore middle school principals’ perceptions of VR using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use) and Technology Readiness Index (TRI) (optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, and insecurity) models to explore middle school principals’ perceptions of VR. This helps to reveal the influencing factors of middle school principals’ acceptance of VR, which in turn provides theoretical support and guidance for promoting the application of VR in education.MethodsTo explore the factors influencing the acceptance of VR by middle school principals. We searched several databases such as Google, Scopus, and Elsevier. We focused on peer-reviewed English-language publications on VR, TAM, TRI, and middle school education from 2013 to 2023.ResultsThrough the literature review, we found that middle school principals’ intention to use VR was significantly influenced by the TAM (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use) and TRI (optimism, innovation, discomfort, and insecurity) models. In addition, there was some degree of intersection between the dimensions of the TRI and TAM models.ConclusionVR has been widely recognized by middle school principals as an educational tool. By providing an immersive and interactive experience, VR can be effective in improving the efficiency of school operations to a great extent.

Shaping Better Futures: Inside-Out Colombian English Language Teachers’ Gaps and Practices

This exploratory qualitative study reports gaps in the preservice teacher education and professional development of 15 English language teachers in a Colombian public university regarding their teaching knowledge and practice. Grounded theory was used to examine the data collected via focus groups and questionnaires, which were validated and triangulated. Findings reveal several teacher deficiencies, classified into three axes: language proficiency, teaching awareness, and teacher challenges. These tensions unveil imbalances between theory and practice, inefficient mentoring during the practicum stage, lack of classroom management skills for efficient teaching, and the need to revitalize and endorse information and communications technology education and use in the new classroom era. The article also offers a discussion on reconceptualizing teacher education.

The Role of Cybersecurity Knowledge and Awareness in Cybersecurity Intention and Behavior in the United States

Despite the rapid escalation of cybercrimes in modern society, few viable cybersecurity and cybercrime prevention programs exist. Consequently, this research considers cybersecurity as a key element for mitigating the potential risk and incidents of cybercrime. The study aims to understand the role of individuals’ cybersecurity knowledge and awareness in shaping their cybersecurity intention and behavior in the United States. The results reveal that information and communications technology variables, education, income, and gender are contributing predictors of a level of cybersecurity knowledge. The effects of information and communications technology variables varied across gender for both correct and uncertain responses. The findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive understanding of both technical and human/individual factors for cybersecurity knowledge and education.

The Integration of Digital Technologies into Practicum Classrooms by Smartphone-Savvy Pre-Service Teachers in Indonesia

<p style="text-align:justify">The Indonesian government has declared a strong commitment to information and communication technology (ICT) education reform but has made meager progress due to inconsistent education policies, fragmentary technological infrastructure, and ill-prepared teachers. Despite these obstacles, young people in Indonesia have embraced smartphones and related technologies as important means of maintaining their socially integrated lifestyles. This project sought to measure the adoption of smartphone technologies among pre-service teachers as part of their broader ICT consciousness and teaching. We examined the ICT competencies of 220 pre-service teachers at two state universities in western Indonesia. A questionnaire was distributed to the participants toward the end of the students' final practicum during the COVID-19 closure of the schools. Results showed very high use of smartphones in private contexts, infrequent use of laptops and desktop computers, a strong rejection of institutionally available (or often unavailable) devices and services, and a skewing of ICT skills toward tools available on smartphones, especially those accessible through social media platforms.</p>

REVITALIZING EDUCATION THROUGH ICT: A SHORT OVERVIEW OF JAPAN'S CURRENT LANDSCAPE

The domain of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education has garnered significant consideration in recent times. However, several challenges are inherent to this area of study, including monetary expense, temporal factors, pedagogical environment, teacher training programs, incentive, syllabus design, and health-related concerns. This paper presents an analysis of the difficulties encountered in the realm of ICT education in Japan, taking into account ten different perspectives.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0063/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

A reflective design case of practical micro‐ethics in learning analytics

AbstractA burgeoning literature, policy landscape, and set of practice resources and guidelines have emerged around ethical educational technology development and implementation, particularly in the context of data or artificial intelligence informed tools. However, while these resources provide valuable tools to support navigation of the ethical landscape, they suffer from some limitations. These include a focus on coarse‐grained, clear cut cases; a lack of attention to dilemmas and tensions; and a potential focus on procedural aspects of ethics, rather than our moment‐to‐moment ethics‐in‐action. This paper provides a case study description, using a reflective design case to provide a more textured micro‐ethics. The case approach, its exemplification as a tool for micro‐ethics, and the features of interest in our particular case each provide valuable tools for the educational technology community. Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic Ethical concerns are central to the design, development and implementation of educational technologies (edtech). A range of guidelines, policies and law exist, providing principles that guide edtech research and use. However existing resources tend to reflect coarse procedural aspects of ethics, providing a navigation aid, but not a defined path, in ethical edtech practice. What this paper adds This paper provides a novel method—a reflective design case—for describing and exploring micro‐ethics in edtech. Through applying this method, we demonstrate that micro‐ethical analyses of ‘ethics‐in‐action’ help to uncover the nuanced decisions we make in ethical conduct. This exemplification provides insight into a specific body of work on writing analytics, of relevance to the field. Implications for practice and/or policy Policy and guidance for ethical conduct should make use of cases that demonstrate how such ethical materials are drawn on in ethical conduct, and as demonstrations of micro‐ethics in action. Practitioners—those who design, develop, and implement edtech—may use the method developed to explore and share their own cases to support their work. Practitioners—those who design, develop, and implement edtech—may draw on shared reflective design cases in learning regarding navigating application of procedural ethics and developing ethics‐in‐action.

Specific Gaming Features in an Interactive Powerpoint on the enhancement of Grammar Skill

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education becomes more prevalent in the 21st century, more emphasis been placed on developing teachers' competence in English language teaching, particularly in grammar terms. Teaching and learning in the 21st century have advanced and shifted from pen and paper to use of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to help in the process of imparting knowledge and skills to the learners. Use of the information Communication Technology tools like computers, laptops, printers, scanners, software programs, data projectors, and interactive teaching box has made teaching and learning efficient and interesting. This study sought to determine the influence of selected gaming features in interactive PowerPoint in teaching of grammar skills among primary school students. The study adopted design of a narrative research model as it offers the respondents to give in-depth information about their experiences and allow the researcher to make independent observations. The study used observation schedule and interviews to collect data from a sample of 12 respondents teaching primary level English subject in a sub urban school in Pulau Tikus district, Penang, Malaysia. The study used thematic data analysis whereby the use of interactive PowerPoint gamming features in teaching primary school students significantly promoted good learning skills like lettering pronunciation, reading, spacing of words, coloring and joining of letters. Despite the positive outcomes of ICT utilization, teachers cited inadequate teaching resources and limited teacher training. The study recommends that teachers to be supported by adequate teaching and learning resources for efficient ICT utilization.

The Need of Integrating Digital Education in Higher Education: Challenges and Opportunities

Although it existed in a few different forms earlier, digital education is essentially a modern invention. It is the digitalization of a segment of the educational system. This article attempts to offer insightful thoughts on the future potential and difficulties of information and communication technology (ICT) and digital education as they relate to adopting the most recent technological advancements in the digital era and extensive online open courses. With the development of internet technology, we have observed a significant shift in how we communicate and collaborate among academics. The digital revolution encouraged unrestricted access to information on a global scale. Today’s classrooms are equipped with a wealth of ICT tools, and almost all instructors have made significant progress in integrating digital technology to improve students’ access to information and cooperative learning opportunities. The higher education system must seek to utilize the power of ICT to be competitive and provide high-quality education as a consequence of digital transformation, disruptive technological innovations, and accelerated change. To accomplish these ambitions, this paper describes some challenges that higher education encounters, as well as technological resources and methodologies they have used in the current scenario to transform higher education to adopt digital transformation. The paper aims to synthesize considerable insights that can be applied to the digitalization of higher education in the current and near future.

The significance of information and communication technology education via tablets in college of physical therapy.

[Purpose] This study aimed to clarify whether collaborative learning could be promoted via information and communication technology education using tablets at college of physical therapy. [Participants and Methods] An online survey was conducted to evaluate collaborative learning among 81 first-year students at the Department of Physical Therapy actively using tablets in classes (six specific categories). [Results] The Friedman test had significant results, and a significant primary effect was observed between each questionnaire item. Following this, the Bonferroni test was performed for multiple comparisons, with significant differences were observed among certain items. [Conclusion] We reported employing tablets in the classroom positively impacted collaborative learning. Here, among the evaluations of collaborative learning, the items with the best results corresponded mainly to communication activation between students.

INTERACTIVE STUDYING AS A METHOD OF INTERPRETER’S FOREIGN-LANGUAGE COMPETENCE FORMATION

The article substantiates the necessity of he foreign-language competence formation of specialists inthe translation sphere during the process of studying a foreign language for professional purpouse, business and secondforeign languages. The modern state of interpreters’ preparation for professional activity is analyzed.Practical mastering of a foreign language is considered as a process of acquiring of a communicativeprofessionally oriented foreign competence by students. It is revealed that the level should not be lower than that whichallows the usage of a foreign language in scientific, informational and professional activities.It had been determined that the foreign competence of interpreters is an integrative quality that includes the
 level of mastering of foreign language knowledge, skills and abilities and consists of linguistic, communicative, socio-cultural and professional competences.
 As a result of the study, it was found that, skills of free communication in a foreign language and translation skillsneed particular knowledge in the field of economics, science or technology. The specialists with such level of languageproficiency must have not only knowledge and skills of foreign language, but also a profound understanding of foreignlanguage culture and realities.Effective formation of foreign language competence of specialists in the field of translation takes place in theprocess of studying such disciplines as: “Foreign Language (for Professional Purposes)”, “Business Foreign Language”, “Second Foreign Language”.The meaning of foreign language (for professional purposes) for experts in the sphere of interpretation isanalyzed. The process of foreign language competence formation, which is a necessary component of a full-fledgedprofessional training of interpreners had been described.The research reveals that the introduction of interactive studying methods is due to the application of the mainaspects, namely: projects, business games, web-quest, excursions, etc.It is proved that an important aspect in foreign language competence formation is the usage of informative andcommunicative technologies in education, which includes the using of information and communication technologies ineducation, work with computer and multimedia educational programs, distance learning technologies in foreignlanguages, creation of presentations, usage of resources of the World Wide Web Internet.

Issues, Possibilities and Problems in Higher Education using ICT

ICT is a medium for information and communication technology. The standard of education should be improved. Fast-track digital media and records, information technology, the effect of ongoing developments in educational (IT) technology expertise on education as the universe shifts. Technology Focused on Education (IT). In the 21st century, ICT's position in education is becoming more important. ICT helps to share the availability of educational best practices and best course content. In the concept of the teaching and learning process, ICT-based curriculum creates shifts in educational goals. ICT encourages research institutions to enter vulnerable communities and emerging foreign markets in education. Over the past decade, major changes in manufacturing, agriculture, medicine, business, engineering and other fields have been profoundly brought on by new ICT tools. New teaching methodologies include the use on the part of lecturers of audiovisual, computer and telemetry equipment. The aim of this paper is to discuss the relevance of knowledge and information. Communication Technology, major issues and higher education problems in India

Information Communication Technology and Modern Higher Education

Information Communication Technology and Modern Higher Education