What is ICT

– ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology

– ICT are basically information handling tools, a varied set of equipment, applications and services that are used to
produce, store, process, distribute and exchange information.
– Old ICT include radio, television, telephone, tapes, cassettes etc.
– New ICT include computers, satellite, wireless technology and internet.
– As per IBM Glossary, “ICT is the use of computer based information systems and communication systems to
transmit and store data and information”.

ICT Tools
ICT tools stand for Information Communication Technology tools. The ICT tools means to digital infrastructures like computers,
laptops, printers, scanners, software programs, data projectors, and interactive teaching box.

The ICT devices are the latest tools, concepts and techniques used in student-to-teacher, student-to-student interaction for
example: - clicker devices, mobile applications, flipped classroom) for information and communication technology.
Classification of ICT Tools

• ICT could be classified in three categories:

1. Physical ICT hardware or Gadgets- include audio-visuals, telephone and computers

• Television

• Cell phones

• Modems : A modem is a device that translates signals to and from between two computer devices in a network.

• Computers- There are numerous things that computers can do as far as device connectivity, task processing,
data management and storage is concerned. The computer connects us to the internet and helps us share
information in a network. Other physical communication technologies (ICT gadgets or hardware) in digital devices
include remote controls, keyless entry devices, walkie-talkies, Bluetooth earpieces, GPS Satellites, CD’s DVD’s,
flash drives, tape, compact memory chips.

2. Non-Physical ICT Software (Virtual Communication Technology): Software and Wireless Network represent
ICT Software Software: Software is a program that direct smooth running of a computer system. It can be system
software (such as Microsoft operating system) or application software (such as MS Internet Explorer, MS Word,
MS Excel etc.).

3. Communication Technology Services (ICT Services): Internet and Email services are examples of ICT
services.
Applications of ICT in Education
• Enablement of employment of innovative educational resources
• Continuous renewal of methods of learning
• Sets up more active collaboration from students
• Makes possible simultaneous acquisition of technological knowledge
• It facilitates refinement in educational processes

Major applications of ICT

• Internet the miraculous all pervading medium
• E-mail
• Mobile phone
• Fax
• Video conference
• Telecommunications and digital telephone exchanges Everyday applications of ICT
• Banking, Education, Transport, Medicine, Agriculture, E-commerce, E-governance,
Defense
Importance of ICT Tools
● Improved Communication
○ ICT tools like email, messaging apps, video conferencing (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams), and social
media enable instant and efficient communication across the globe.
○ Facilitates collaboration in professional, educational, and personal contexts.
● Enhanced Education
○ Tools like learning management systems (LMS), e-books, and educational apps (e.g., Google
Classroom, Khan Academy) provide access to quality education for learners anywhere.
○ Interactive technologies, such as smartboards and virtual reality (VR), enrich learning experiences.
○ Promotes lifelong learning and skill development through online courses.
● Increased Business Efficiency
○ ICT tools improve organizational productivity by automating tasks, streamlining workflows, and
managing resources effectively.
○ Examples: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
systems.
○ Facilitates global business operations through e-commerce platforms and digital marketing.
● Access to Information
○ Tools like search engines, online libraries, and databases provide instant access to vast amounts of
information.
○ Ensures that individuals and organizations stay informed and make data-driven decisions.
● Promotes Innovation
○ ICT fosters creativity by enabling collaboration on innovative projects using tools like cloud computing,
3D modeling, and AI-driven applications.
○ Encourages the development of new technologies and business models.
● Empowers Governance and Public Services
○ E-governance platforms improve transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in delivering government
services.
○ Tools like digital payment systems and online tax filing reduce administrative bottlenecks.
● Healthcare Advancements
○ Telemedicine platforms enable remote consultations, diagnosis, and treatment.
○ ICT tools facilitate medical research, health record management, and patient monitoring through
wearable devices.
● Social and Cultural Development
○ ICT connects communities through social networks, forums, and online events, fostering cultural
exchange and social inclusion.
○ Promotes awareness of global issues like climate change and public health.
● Facilitates Remote Work
○ With tools like cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) and project management software (e.g.,
Trello, Asana), remote work has become more practical and efficient.
○ Expands employment opportunities by removing geographical barriers.
● Supports Sustainable Development
○ ICT tools optimize resource management, reduce paper usage, and support eco-friendly practices like
smart energy systems.
○ Encourages green technologies and reduces the environmental impact of traditional operations.
Disadvantages of using ICT
1. Lack of job security – Experts in a wide variety of fields believe that ICT has made
job security a big issue, since technology keeps on changing nearly every day. This
means that individuals need to be constantly studying or at least keeping up with
changes in their profession, if they want to feel secure in their jobs to be secure.
2.Overriding Cultures - While ICT may have made the world a global village, it has also
contributed to one culture consuming another weaker one. For example, it is now
argued that teenagers in the US influence how most young teenagers all over the
world now act, dress, and behave.
3.Privacy - Though information technology may have made communication quicker,
easier, and more convenient, it has also brought along privacy issues. From cell phone
signal interceptions to e-mail hacking, people are now worried about their once private
information becoming public knowledge.
Different Types of ICT Tools and Their Uses
1. Communication Tools
● Examples: Email, Messaging Apps (WhatsApp, Slack), Video Conferencing Tools (Zoom, Microsoft Teams), VoIP (Skype).
● Uses:
○ Facilitate instant communication across different locations.
○ Support remote work and virtual meetings.
○ Enable collaboration among teams via chat and voice/video calls.

2. Data Management Tools

● Examples: Databases (SQL, Oracle), Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox), Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel, Google
Sheets).
● Uses:
○ Store, organize, and analyze large volumes of data.
○ Provide secure and centralized access to information.
○ Support decision-making through data analysis.

3. Educational Tools
● Examples: Learning Management Systems (LMS like Moodle, Google Classroom), E-books, Educational Apps (Khan
Academy, Duolingo), Smartboards.
● Uses:
○ Facilitate online learning and training programs.
○ Enhance teaching with multimedia resources.
○ Offer remote access to quality education.
4. Productivity Tools
● Examples: Office Suites (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace), Project Management Software (Trello, Asana), Time Management Apps.
● Uses:
○ Increase workplace efficiency by organizing tasks and schedules.
○ Manage projects and track progress effectively.
○ Enable document creation, sharing, and editing.

5. Networking Tools
● Examples: Routers, Modems, Network Switches, VPNs.
● Uses:
○ Enable connectivity between devices over local and global networks.
○ Ensure secure data transmission across networks.
○ Facilitate access to the internet and intranet services.
6. Multimedia Tools
● Examples: Video Editing Software (Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro), Graphic Design Tools (Adobe Photoshop, Canva), Audio Tools
(Audacity, GarageBand).
● Uses:
○ Create and edit multimedia content like videos, images, and audio.
○ Enhance presentations and marketing materials.
○ Support creative industries like filmmaking and advertising.

7. Hardware Devices
● Examples: Computers, Smartphones, Tablets, Printers, Scanners, Projectors.
● Uses:
○ Enable access to software applications and digital resources.
○ Support communication, data processing, and content creation.
○ Facilitate the printing and sharing of physical documents.
8. Internet Tools
● Examples: Search Engines (Google, Bing), Browsers (Chrome, Firefox), Social Media Platforms (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn).
● Uses:
○ Access vast amounts of information quickly and easily.
○ Promote businesses and connect with audiences via social media.
○ Enable global networking and knowledge sharing.

9. Collaboration Tools
● Examples: File Sharing Tools (OneDrive, SharePoint), Team Collaboration Platforms (Slack, Microsoft Teams), Online Whiteboards (Miro, Jamboard).
● Uses:
○ Enhance teamwork by allowing real-time collaboration.
○ Share files and ideas seamlessly across different locations.
○ Foster brainstorming and problem-solving.

10. Financial Tools

● Examples: Accounting Software (QuickBooks, Tally), Online Payment Systems (PayPal, Stripe), E-Banking Apps.
● Uses:
○ Manage financial transactions and bookkeeping.
○ Enable secure online payments.
○ Streamline budgeting and financial planning.

11. Healthcare Tools

● Examples: Telemedicine Platforms, Electronic Health Records (EHR), Medical Imaging Software.
● Uses:
○ Provide remote medical consultations and diagnoses.
○ Maintain digital patient records for easy access.
○ Support advanced medical imaging and diagnostics.

12. Security Tools

● Examples: Antivirus Software (Norton, McAfee), Firewalls, Encryption Tools.
● Uses:
○ Protect data and systems from cyber threats.
○ Ensure secure communication and data sharing.
○ Monitor and manage network security.

13. Entertainment Tools

● Examples: Streaming Platforms (Netflix, YouTube), Gaming Consoles, VR Devices.
● Uses:
○ Deliver digital entertainment like movies, music, and games.
○ Provide immersive experiences through virtual reality.
○ Enable live streaming and interactive media consumption.

14. Geographic Information Tools

● Examples: GPS Devices, Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
● Uses:
○ Provide navigation and mapping services.
○ Support urban planning and environmental monitoring.