Articles on Innovative tool in the 21st Century

1. Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) is an interactive instructional technique whereby a
computer is used to present the instructional material and monitor the learning that takes
place. It is also a program of instructional materials presented by means of a computer or
computer systems.
As an ICT coordinator for four years I have learned that there are many advantages in using
computers and internet access in Educational Instruction. They help make our work easier and
faster especially in making grades. They help us catch the attention of our pupils; they are
responsive and alive for the whole duration of our classes. Their retention in listening also
triumphs compare to those times when I just used Instructional Materials such as pens and
manila paper.
In my class, CAI is very useful. If I believe that the lesson or competency is best taught with the
aid of computer, I just search for ready-made Power Point Presentations on Google. There are
ample PPT slides available for free download. I go through all the slides making sure that the
contents fit my topic and audience. After that, I seek for more videos on Youtube to support
those theories found in PPT so that my pupils won’t get bored in class, I inject ice-breakers,
songs, and games to keep their full attention. I also set some rules for the students to follow
before we start the CAI-class. After the presentation and discussions, I give them exercises
which are also via the computer usually either individually or by group.
What’s good with CAI is that it provides one on one interaction with students; instantaneous
response to the answers elicited, and allows students to proceed at their own pace. Computers
are particularly useful in subjects that require drill, freeing teacher time from some classroom
tasks so that a teacher can devote more time toindividual students or pupils. A computer
programs can be used diagnostically, and, once a student’s problem has been identified, it can
focused on the problem area. Finally because of the privacy and individual attention afforded
by computer, some students/pupils are relieved of the embarrassment of giving an incorrect
answer publicly or of going more slowly through lessons than other classmates.
On the other hand CAI could be designed through drill and practice, tutorial, simulation
activities, discovery, problem solving and games. It also providesone-on-one interaction, freedom
to experiment with learning options, immediate feedback, self-pacing, and privacy for shy and
slow learners. Learners have been found to learn more and more rapidly for multimedia provide
a variety of formats to present difficult material. Self-directed learning allows learners to decide
when, where and what to learn.
CAI is a tool that makes teaching and learning fun and easy. Let’s use it!
CAI: Innovative tool in the
21st
Century
By: Mylene Joy L. Molina
Teacher I
Padernal Elementary School
Malaybalay City Division
DepEd- Philippines