3 Ways ICT Labs Can Equip Students To Be Better Learners

With a seemingly constant stream of new technologies transforming education, schools have regularly upgraded their computer labs to keep up with the changing times. However, with more schools switching from traditional curriculums to blended learning classes, computer labs are being phased out in favour of technological advances.

As technology increasingly impacts how we live our lives in an ever-evolving world order, the need for students to enter the workforce with robust technology skills has become a critical component of our curricula. Computers and technology permeate all aspects of daily life, so it only makes sense that students should have access to them in school. 

One of the best ways for students to gain these skills is by creating computer labs. ICT Labs not only focus on technical education, but also helps develop soft skills like teamwork, leadership skills, and presentation skills. ICT Labs aim to produce better learners by providing them with a healthy mix of academic and technological learning.

These ICT laboratories have been modified and modernized to meet current industry standards. For instance, the Ranchi district administration will soon unveil digitized laboratories in government schools as part of a pilot project to increase students’ digital education. Each tab has educational apps that provide general information and the course materials specific to each teacher’s class. The idea is to give students access to digital learning materials at the click of a button.

Here are 3 ways that ICT Labs can be great enablers of education.

👉 Desktop Computers Have More to Offer

Full-sized workstations offer greater power and more display space than smaller mobile devices. They provide a more comprehensive array of software options and offer greater support for the heavy-duty graphics cards used in virtual reality and 3D visualizations. These computers tend to be more expensive than laptops, and are best suited to students needing more screen real estate and processing power. Virtual reality headsets are increasingly used for experiential learning in schools and colleges in India. For instance, some students of Smt. Godavari Devi Saraf Senior Secondary School in Vizianagaram District of Andhra Pradesh is using VR headsets to learn how the human heart works, which is more than what a textbook chapter can teach.

👉 ICT Labs ensure Equal Access

With digital technologies playing an increasingly vital role in learning, educators have struggled to ensure that all students have equal access to resources and opportunities. In addition to disparities in technology access among children, there are also differences in parents’ levels of technology fluency. School computer labs ensure that all children get to use computers until they get a dedicated laptop or a tablet. Most schools have recognized the value of having dedicated lab time, where students can learn basic computing skills and use the internet and software applications.

👉 Computers Supplement Classroom Learning

Computer labs provide an opportunity to explore a world of knowledge beyond the required classroom curriculum. They can help develop soft skills and introduce concepts that aren’t learned in class, mainly because classroom teachers have a wide-ranging curriculum to explore in a limited period of time. School computer labs are the perfect complement and enhancement tool for classroom learning.

Computer skills include how to use word-processing programs, utilize spreadsheets, navigate the Internet, send and receive email messages, create multimedia presentations, and many more skills. Rather than relying on self-instruction, computer labs in schools can provide an ideal location for students to learn and practice their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

At Square Panda India, we understand the importance of equipping educators with technological and digital skills for today’s classroom. Our educator empowerment programs include basic training about ICT Labs and cyber safety, where we include topics about introducing fun, relevant digital tools to the school. We want to empower educators by giving them the knowledge and skills needed for the current 21^st-century classrooms. To know more, visit https://www.squarepanda.in/