THE MODERN PRACTICES OF USING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Abstract

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) is becoming more widespread and important in elementary schools around the world because ICT has the potential to facilitate learning processes and innovative approaches in teachers' practices. The article aimed to assess the current practice of information technology in elementary education, using the example of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The research methodology was based on statistical analysis and analysis of the results of a survey of Czech and Slovak teachers on the inclusion of ICT skills development subjects in teacher training programs, the use of skills in practice, and the effectiveness of professional development of ICT skills of teachers. The results indicate that in the innovative pedagogical practices of teachers in OECD countries the introduction of technology and digital tools for teaching elementary school students is the least common type of innovation. Within OECD countries there is almost no difference in the implementation of innovative technologies in pedagogical practice. The limited availability of computers and the Internet for students was revealed. It was determined that in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, thematic disciplines related to technology were included in formal educational training programs for teachers in 45% and 63% of cases, respectively. At the same time, a high level of ICT training in both countries was assessed (in the Czech Republic 89%, in Slovakia 95%). Differences in subjective assessment of the need for professional development of ICT skills between the countries were found (43% and 60%, respectively). Among Czech and Slovak teachers who had undergone professional development for ICT skills development, more claimed positive effects such as supplementing prior knowledge, adapting to personal development needs, holistic structure, reinforcement of subject content teaching in the school by the teacher, active learning, using new ideas and knowledge in the classroom, introduction of different activities in teaching, focus on innovative teaching practices.