Compared to the past, where knowledge was passed down orally or in the form of pen and paper, a wealth of knowledge is being made available through the internet (e.g. Google) and digital media. Such is the power of these media that “google” has become a common definition in the dictionary (Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary) for the finding out of information. Hence, there was a need to prepare the students in using information and communication technologies (ICT) to be able to take advantage of this wealth of information in approaching problem-solving and learning.
The first masterplan provided both teachers and students with the resources such as computers, and the skills to be able to use relevant Internet resources and digital media for teaching and learning.
Masterplan 2 focused on setting a baseline standard for the use of ICT in the curriculum and assessment in schools as well as providing support for research and implementation of ICT in schools. Masterplan 3 (MP3) extends this vision. This is especially relevant in light of recent developments.
The younger generation is increasingly being exposed to various ICT tools from a young age. It is common to see a 10 year old carrying a smartphone typing furiously or playing an applet game; common recreational activities for children are also forms of interactive digital media such as the Nintendo Wii, Playstation and Xbox. Hence, the new generation also learn in slightly different ways from the past.
Investment in research studying the use of interactive and digital media such as (immersive virtual environments, educational games, EduLab) in MP3 reflects this need to be able to help students most effectively in this digital age.
Also, the development in social media such as Facebook, Twitter, MSN (Microsoft messenger) and Skype has allowed people to communicate with almost anyone, anywhere. Emails and online documents rather than physical communication (phone calls, face to face interaction) are also increasingly favoured as the mode of communication and discussion in the workplace.
Due to this high connectivity amongst people, it has led to workplaces and societies to become increasingly fast-paced and fast-changing. Hence, there is a need to prepare students to be able communicate and collaborate effectively using ICT, as well as nurture a disposition that allows them to continually learn and adapt even as they work.
The increased connectivity has also led to an increased exposure to different cultures and beliefs, some of which are highly influential. Recent incidents where many independent terrorist attacks, (be it Islamic fundamentalists or right wing extremists such as the incident in Norway), seem to stem from ideologies being put forth in blogs and websites. Thus, there is a need to be train students to think critically of the knowledge and beliefs they may be exposed to, as well as to be sensitive to different cultures and beliefs in how they express themselves through such media. The phone hacking incident that is bringing down to Murdoch empire, and concern over intellectual property, also suggests the need to educate our students in the ethics of this new knowledge era as well as how to protect themselves against the people who threaten to misuse the ICT.
In MP3, there is an increased focus on incorporating ICT enriched learning experiences in the classroom as well as for assessment. This allows students to learn how to find out knowledge for themselves through such media, and develop a healthy curiosity for acquiring new knowledge. One of the goals of MP3 is to allow learning to take place wherever and whenever the learner chooses through the use of ICT (http://ictconnection.edumall.sg/), which would increase students’ ability to adapt and learn in different situations, as well as allow students to take charge of their own learning.
Increased use of ICT in collaborative learning, such as group discussions, projects, and interdisciplinary projects, would also help students to learn how to be sensitive to different ideas, as well as work effectively in teams through such media.
The emphasis on cyberwellness in MP3 is also important in ensuring that students are able to use ICT in a safe way and are able to take responsibility for their own well-being (http://ictconnection.edumall.sg/).
Overall, there is a need for MOE to continually keep up to date with the needs of society and equip students with the relevant ICT skills through such masterplans to prepare them for the future.
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