Usage and challenges of information Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching and learning in India

This study examined the concept of Information Communication Technology (ICT), its relevance and usage in teaching and learning. The challenges of ICT on learning process in Indian universities were discussed using descriptive survey, unstructured interview, observations and participatory experience. The study revealed that ICT is relevant as evaluative tool and as an improvement of knowledge and skills. It also revealed that teacher factor, digital divide, box of colored-chalk, inadequate funding, management attitudes, inadequate of internet connectivity, energy related and low Tele-Density were some of the challenges of ICT in teaching and learning process in Indian Universities. Recommendations made were that all employed teachers in federal, state and private universities should undertake mandatory training and retraining on ICT programmers. This is to provide them with practical and functional knowledge of computer, internet and associated areas of ICT for improved effectiveness and efficiency. Government should develop ICT policies and practices that would support lecturers in their academic work and students in their learning. ICT tools should be made more accessible to all the students and staff. Also, digital divide should be bridged within and between the staff of universities, teaching should move from the box of colored chalk to e-learning. All hands, that is, government, parents and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) must be on deck towards computerization of Indian universities, the globalization of education and network education management.