Harnessing the Potential of ICTs: Literacy and Numeracy Programmes Using Radio, TV, Mobile Phones, Tablets and Computers

The experiences documented in this publication show that the practice of effectively integrating ICTs into the teaching and learning of literacy and numeracy is not a simple one-step process. It involves a series of deliberate decisions, preparatory actions, creativity and pilot testing. It requires careful analysis of which educational objectives can be supported by ICTs; which ICTs are the most appropriate with regard to learners’ and teachers’ motivations and capacities, context realities and development prospects; and which investment in the necessary human, physical and instructional infrastructures is necessary and sustainable over time. Innovations require deliberate effort and commitment, a solid base of knowledge, consultation of stakeholders and participatory development processes, testing of different options, planning for large-scale implementation, and openness to self-critical assessment, modification and adjustment. A prudent step-by-step incremental approach, succeeded in time by a comprehensive strategic approach, has proven to be the most effective.