A major benefit of the use of ICTs in today’s classroom can be found in its potential to prepare the students for a future workplace. There will be more and more jobs that require competence with computers, Internet and other information technology. The so-called “technological literacy” is becoming increasingly important. It is one of the key skills identified by enGauge (a project of the North Central Regional Educational Laboratory). This project researched the skills needed at the working places of the 21st century. The skills fall into four categories:
Workplace © by wovox
- Digital-Age Literacy: This includes literacy in basic, mathematical, technological, cultural, visual, scientific and information related problems. It also demands a global awareness.
- Inventive Thinking: This set of skills is determined by ability to manage complex topics and problems. It relies on curiosity and creativity but depends also on the willingness to take risks.
- Effective Communication: It becomes increasingly important to communicate interactively. Equally, one has to act socially and personally responsible. Thus, the skills to collaborate and to team are as important as interpersonal skills.
- High Productivity: Without productivity no one can succeed. To achieve this, it is necessary to plan, manage and prioritize. Only then, tools and skills can be applied effectively
All these skills can be developed by the use of ICTs. It provides technological literacy and is centered on the learner. This way, the needed skills can be developed in simulations, team projects and repetitive tasks.
