CYRIL Potter College of Education (CPCE) yesterday concluded a three-day workshop, at which the primary focus was the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the curriculum for improved learning.

Themed ‘Retooling for improved curriculum delivery’ it was facilitated by Mr. Anthony Galvin, from Renaissance Learning, a Canadian organisation which specialises in the development of technical approaches to education; Dr. Bridget Ogoweo, from University of Guyana (UG); Dr. Leyland Maison, Chairman of the CPCE Board and CPCE Faculty Members.

CPCE Vice-Principal, Development, Mrs. Debra Thomas said the participants included both CPCE lecturers and coordinators from its centres in the different regions.

Regions Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Five (Mahaica/ Berbice) and Eight (Potaro/Siparuni) were not represented at the forum, she disclosed.

Thomas said the introduction of ICT into the curriculum is important because of the present advancements in technology utilised by most people today.

“Our trainee teachers will, ultimately, be responsible for moulding the minds of our youths and this technology is an effective way to reach the youth,” she posited.

Thomas pointed out that development of quality teachers will result in better performances by students, who, in turn, will be, ultimately, responsible for Guyana’s development.

SKILLS
She said the exercise ended yesterday was part of the CPCE development programme aimed at enhancing the skills set of staffers.

Galvin, in an invited comment, endorsed the view that the use of technology in education is important, noting that it not only assists the learning process but makes students excited about learning.

“Technology for enhancing the delivery of education is vital. In our world today, we see change and how fast the world is being impacted by technology. We also are aware of what skills the students need. We need to have and promote a basis of technology understanding to solve issues of the future and reinforce the basic skills,” he said.

Galvin reported that the response from the workshop participants has been positive.

He said new technology called NEO 2, is specifically designed for use in the classroom. It also provides writing support, guided instruction, teaches students self-assessment, encourages student collaboration, keeps them on task, conducts assessments, facilitates wireless printing, helps to increase keyboarding speed and accuracy and manage classroom tasks easily.

“The technology is designed to withstand student use and abuse,” Galvin assured.

Other aspects of the workshop dealt with ‘Pedagogical Skills – Modelling good practices’ and ‘Clinical supervision’.

Deputy Vice-Principal, Administration, of CPCE, Ms. Viola Rowe said the efforts of the institution are consistent with its aim to advance continued professional development of teacher trainers.

COURSES
The courses at CPCE include ‘Pre and in-service nursery programmes of two years duration; Pre and in-service primary programmes of two-year duration; Pre and in-service secondary academic programmes of three-year duration and Pre-service secondary and pre-vocational programmes of three-year duration.

She said the basic components of all are inclusive of curriculum and enrichment studies – core subjects, music, art, computer studies, etc.; educational and professional studies – psychology, philosophy, principles of education, etc.; teaching practice and community service.

The departments at CPCE are Education, Information Technology, Modern Languages, Physical Education, Science and Student Development.