Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Information and communications technology incorporates the roles of both information technology and digital communication, such as the Internet. ICT focuses on both traditional and modern forms of technology that operate on internal and external networks.

History

The term "ICT" originated in a 1997 article by Dennis Stevenson, former chairman of Pearson PLC. He added the word "communications" to "information technology" to reflect the growing awareness of the Internet and other modern IT networking methods and their functions as interactive tools.

Types

ICT applications include office applications such as word processing and spreadsheet programs, database software and publishing software. Other programs include computer-aided design tools and customer relations management tools, which assist users in understanding customers of their business.

Effects

An ICT curriculum road map is a tool that helps determine which careers a person can work in and the skills they need to learn to advance to another position. For example, a support technician role can lead to a systems engineer position to systems administrator.

References

• Financial Times: What the Web Is Doing for Schools
• Microsoft: Microsoft ICT Curriculum Roadmap: Pathways to Success
• Tutor 2U: Introduction - What Is ICT?