ICT (Information and Communications Technology) in Education: Change brings Challenges

The history of use of ICT in Education goes back to the era of introduction of calculators, usage of overhead projectors, video projectors, and interactive boards and so on. Our current education system promotes usage of Computer and Mobile technologies for providing education. The Covid-19 pandemic situation has made us all dependent in a positive way on ICT to continue imparting education. It has also helped in providing a platform for interaction between students, teachers, parents and educational institutions. But as with any new change there are challenges. And to understand the challenges, one needs to ask the beneficiaries and check on their experiences. It will help to get the answer of whether we are able to achieve what we intend to or is the reality very different. This paper explores the role of ICT in education and touches upon reality by analyzing the views of students and parents in rural area of Gujarat. The paper also highlights areas of concern and need for change to make ICT more effective in Education. Keywords: Covid-19, challenges, education, ICT, Information Technology, online learning, rural area.