Meaningful Technology: ICT Skills for the Future

Damani, Bijal. Electronic Portfolios: Integrating Technology for Meaningful Learning. Education Update. July2010, Vol.52 Issue 7, p5-5

With ICT at the centre of many units in the Graduate Diploma, I have often question how do I apply it practically within the classroom? The article "Electronic Portfolios: Integrating Technology for Meaningful Learning" recounts the personal experience of using e-portfolio's in Bijal Damani's business studies classroom. 

This advanced form of ICT integration is founded on the premise of the six C's, whereby "electronic portfolios, or e-portfolios, allow students to do six Cs: create, collect, connect, collaborate, conserve, and control."(Damani, p5) These are important skills that students need in the 21st century and also allow them to build up their IT skills at the same time. As Damani states "technology gives students opportunities to take ownership of their learning, and showcasing and sharing work with their peers and parents greatly motivates students."(Damani, p5) The link between ownership and motivation is key to enhancing student learning as students are responsible for their work and the development of their skills. Students need to be empowered not only in the general context of the classroom, but also when using ICT. If teachers instill confidence in their students and purpose in the tasks that they set then students should naturally engage and develop skills for life long learning.