When did a teacher know that information would be just one click away? Thanks to technology, the teachers of today are not restricted to the age old chalk and blackboard methods of teaching. Information and Communication Technology has come of age and has permeated in all areas of our lives and is a significant factor in increasing productivity in different fields.
ICT is now being used in Science and Technology education and
in other areas of the curriculum.
Intel's foray in the field of education through various initiatives like contests in best technology practices, has effectively integrated technology into classrooms.
The main objective behind these contests is to inspire teachers to try out 'new tools' and assist the students in increasing their understanding of various topics. It also acts as a motivational force, guiding the students to go after their goals. These contests serve an important purpose of spreading knowledge and determining the progress and ICT strength of the schools.
As part of these contests, a number of interactive sessions are conducted which boost the confidence level of the students and improve their 21st century silks like communication, technology literacy, collaboration, critical thinking etc.
Such contests are jointly organised by Intel Teach Program and Navodya Vidyalaya Samiti every year to identify 'Best Practices of Technology Integration in Education'. Held in collaboration with NVS schools across the country, these contests are a platform for rewarding the outstanding and innovative practices adopted by schools in the remotest parts of the country. Each year, several teams of students compete and awards and certifications are presented to winners at both district and final competitions.
Recently, a state-level competition on 'Best Use of Technology in Education' was held in Tamil Nadu on November 10, 2008. The purpose was to motivate teachers on effective implementation of Project Based Learning and showcase the projects done by teachers and students.
Ten teachers from the districts of Chennai, Cuddalore, Kanyakumari, Krishnagiri, Madurai, Thiruvarur, Tiruchirapalli and Virudunagar were selected as State level winners. The projects developed and implemented for the contest helped create an impact in their communities. The highlight of this event was a project on 'Creating Awareness on Evil Effects of Usage of Tobacco.' A group of students explained how they motivated the entire village to refrain from consuming tobacco.
On December 3, 2008, Intel with support from Department of State Education Research and Training (DSERT) Karnataka, organised a contest in Bangalore and felicitated students, teachers and principals who have done exemplary work in innovative use of technology. The contest has been organised since 2004, and the response was overwhelming this year, with more than 300 entries received from government schools across the state.
