Thoughts about ICT Masterplan

•  In your opinion, why do you think it is important for MOE to develop the three Masterplans for ICT in education?
• The masterplans for ICT is important for the very fact that the world is moving forward. In order for the country to keep up and even stay ahead of the competition especially in the area of economic growth, it has to be updated with technology and has to have its people be used to technological advances, always has the attitude to try new things and is able to harness technology to improve efficiency and efficacy in their work.
  
  
  The attitude and inclination towards usage of technology has to start from young, as many research has shown that what is learnt from young becomes acquired easier and the fact that young children absorbs things faster than adults.
  
  
  And thus, in order to support this endeavor, the teaching fraternity has to be equipped to teach them and be comfortable to use them effectively and efficiently in the classroom.
  
  
  On another area, due to technology, information is quite easily accessible through the click of a mouse. This enhances learning by manifold as information can be obtained anywhere and anytime. This implies that learning can also be enhanced manifold, thus the catchphrase of “Teach less, learn more” may be applied.
  
  
  I think Masterplan 1 has correctly identified that putting in the infrastructure and getting teachers ready for the next leap in Knowledge-based economy is the first steps in achieving those ideals.
  
  
  Masterplan 2 has extended the use of ICT in lessons, which I actually see in LIanhua Primary school, which actually makes learning more engaging and fun for these 21^st century students. Fin and angaging is definitely an important element in making the students interested in learning and improving their motivation to achieve towards the subjects taught.
  
  
  Masterplan 3 is definitely important to bring the use of technology to the next level as it will encourage more independent learning, self-drive as well as provide a community of learners who will be able to share their thoughts learn from each other.
  
  
  
  
•  Has any of the Masterplans impacted you as a student? Share your experience of how ICT had been used in the classes you attended as a student (if applicable).
• In my experience as a student, never has ICT been used. The most advanced technology during my days as a student was the OHP. 
• Based on your enhanced school experience, how do you think the current Masterplan 3 may affect your role(s) as a beginning teacher ? 
• It is definitely challenging as it means, as a beginning teacher, there are another set of skills that we have to be equipped with other than the traditional teaching skills. (Though I think as long-serving teachers would find it more difficult as they have to break the pattern of their proven effective teaching throughout the years)
  
  
  To equip ourselves, the first thing is our readiness in our hearts and mind to accept that the world is moving forward and that we have to have the skills for ourselves and for our students in order for them to get the most of ‘what is out there’.
  
  
  And I must say Masterplan 3 looks really challenging to someone like me who is only used to Office products, Youtube, internet games and some blogging. A lot of other things are alien to me especially CoL. As a start, I do feel some apprehension as to whether I am able to carry out this use of technology in my class.
  
  
  I would want to start the right footing in NIE for me to develop the interest and confidence to use these tools effectively. And thus, when I enjoy doing them, I should be able to pass on that enjoyment to my students.