COMPUTER AS ASSISTANT

In this category, the computer helps the learner in performing routine work tasks. It can function as
typewriter, calculator, a drawing canvas, a filing system, and the like. Software programs (or
applications) include word processors, graphic designed packages, presentation software, databases,
spreadsheets, and telecommunication Internet tools.
COMPUTER AS TEACHING AID
Advantages
The chief advantage of the computer is interactivity. The learner is involved as is required to
respond. Researches on the use of CAI (Computer assisted instruction, another name either for
Computer-assisted language learning or for e-Learning)( in various educational levels as supplement to
traditional, teacher-directed instruction reveal the achievement effect of those exposed to CAI more
superior than those who are exposed with traditional instruction alone.
Research literature also states that students like working with computers because computers-
1. are infinitely patient, never get tired, frustrated or angry
2. never forget to correct or praise and do not embarrass who make mistakes
3. are self-paced, individualize learning, and allow students to work privately
4. make it possible to experiment with different options
5. are excellent for drill and practice and give immediate feedback
6. are more objective than teachers
7. free teachers for more meaningful contact with students
8 are impartial to race or ethnicity
9. are great motivators, fun and entertaining
10. give students a sense of control over learning
11. call for using sight, hearing and touch
12. teach in small increments
13. help improve spelling and build proficiency in computer use
14. make laborious activities easy
15. work rapidly-closer to the rate of human thought


To effectively run an EMC, a professional staff should man it. The personnel of educational media center
may consist of:
1. Media center head. The media center head plans and implements programs, policies, and budgetary
allocation of the center, in coordination with the administration, faculty and other users. The head
should-
a. possess leadership qualities, good public relations, and administration ability
b. have sufficient background knowledge in library and audiovisual areas in addition to knowledge in
learning theory, communication and curriculum development
2. Professional staff/media specialists. The NEA and ALA recommend a full-time media specialist for
every 250 students. The staff should-
a. have sufficient background in general education and in media resources and services
b. have adequate knowledge and skill pertinent to the nature, and instructional uses of specific media
c. attend periodic in-service education programs to update and expand their professional knowledge
and competencies
3. Supportive staff. They are the media technicians and aides who work under the professional media
specialists. They are in charge of technical works relating to graphic production, information and graphic
processing, photographic production, equipment operation, and simple maintenance. The clerical staff
and student assistants/aides may take charge of clerical and secretarial work and keeping the
appearance of the center in good order.

How is an EMC organized? Here are some steps:
Need. One who will recognize EMC should convince the academic community of the need of one.
Support. Cooperation of faculty, media specialists, and administration should be sought especially in the
formulation of goals and policies.
Inventory. An inventory of all resources- print and audiovisual and the facilities, taking note of their
status and the frequency of using the resources should be made. A survey of media needs of faculty may
also be done.
Budget. The administrative capability in terms of budget should be determined to know the extent of
expenses, especially in the construction of buildings, renovation of rooms, or purchase of additional
facilities.
5. Staff. Qualifications of media staff can be matched with qualifications of existing human resources.
6. Orientation. Services of the media center can be disseminated through orientation programs and
forums.