Information and Communication Technologies and the Changing Role of the Teacher

This paper examines the changing role of the teacher in the use of educational Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Several key issues are explored, including the effects of ICT on teaching and learning, the changing role of the teacher in constructivist learning environments, and the new skills teachers may be expected to acquire in order to make fruitful use of the new technologies. The author argues that the introduction of ICT into schools is raising fundamental questions about the nature of teaching and learning, and may even be challenging our conception of ‘time and place’. The paper offers evaluation of ICT uses in elementary schools in the USA and primary schools in England. It concludes with descriptions of emerging technologies (including relevant website addresses) and the possible contribution these may make to promoting ‘any time, any place’ learning opportunities for the future.