In today’s digital world, empowering teachers with ICT skills is no longer optional—it’s essential. Teachers are not just facilitators of learning; they are innovators, communicators, and creators. To fulfill this role effectively, they must be confident users of digital tools.
Yet, many schools struggle to provide impactful ICT training. Often, sessions are too theoretical, not aligned with classroom realities, or delivered in a one-size-fits-all manner. This article offers a practical guide to organizing ICT training sessions that truly transform teaching and learning.
Why ICT Training for Teachers Matters
- Improved teaching effectiveness: Teachers who integrate ICT make lessons more engaging and accessible.
- Empowerment and confidence: Training helps teachers overcome technophobia and embrace digital tools.
- Preparation for 21st-century learning: Teachers must model the digital skills they want their students to develop.
- Equity in digital adoption: Not all teachers are at the same tech level. Structured training closes this gap.
When teachers learn, students learn better. When teachers use ICT effectively, learning becomes more inclusive, innovative, and interactive.
Key Steps to Organize Effective ICT Training Sessions
- Conduct a Digital Skills Needs Assessment
Before planning any session, know your audience. Find out:
- What digital tools teachers already use
- Their level of comfort with devices and apps
- Their expectations and teaching needs
Example:
At Hope Junior School, teachers completed a Google Form to assess their skills in:
- Using email and Google Docs
- Creating PowerPoint lessons
- Managing online classes (e.g., Google Classroom)
This helped the ICT coordinator group teachers into beginner, intermediate, and advanced tracks.
- Set Clear Learning Objectives
Each training session should have specific, measurable outcomes. For instance:
- By the end of this session, teachers will create a multiple-choice quiz using Google Forms.
- Teachers will record and upload a 5-minute lesson video using their phones.
Avoid vague objectives like “learn about ICT tools.” Focus on what participants will actually be able to do.
- Use Hands-On, Context-Based Approaches
Adults learn best by doing. Design sessions around **real classroom challenges and practical solutions.
Examples of Interactive Sessions:
| Topic | Activity |
|---|---|
| Creating e-content | Teachers use PowerPoint or Canva to design a digital lesson |
| Online assessment | Teachers create a Google Form and test it on peers |
| Video lessons | Teachers record a 2-minute clip using their phone and upload it to YouTube |
| Classroom management | Teachers explore ClassDojo or Google Classroom features |
At St. Agnes Secondary School, ICT sessions ended with each teacher showcasing their new skills to the staff. It boosted confidence and peer learning.
- Encourage Peer Mentorship
Tech-savvy teachers can support others as ICT mentors. Create small “tech buddy” groups where teachers help each other even after training.
Real Case:
At Bright Future School, each department had a “digital ambassador” who led weekly practice sessions in the computer lab. The school reported a 70% increase in technology use in teaching by the end of the term.
- Integrate ICT Training into School Programs
Don’t treat ICT training as a one-off event. Make it a regular feature of school life:
- Monthly “Digital Fridays” with mini-sessions after class
- Staff development days focused on ICT themes
- End-of-term presentations where teachers showcase digital tools they’ve tried
- Provide Access to Tools and Resources
Ensure that teachers have:
- Access to school computers, projectors, and internet
- Printed or digital how-to guides
- Follow-up support from the ICT coordinator or external trainers
sharebility.org offers free resources, templates, and guides you can use in your sessions. Consider downloading materials or inviting a Sharebility ICT coach to your school.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Teachers are busy or uninterested | Tie ICT to classroom benefits and recognition |
| Internet or devices are limited | Use offline apps like Kolibri or install open-source content on school servers |
| Skills gap among staff | Start small—focus on 2-3 simple tools before moving to advanced topics |
| No follow-up | Create WhatsApp groups for continued support and share “weekly tech tips” |
Tools and Apps to Start With
Begin with tools that are:
✅ Easy to use
✅ Free or low-cost
✅ Useful across subjects
Recommended tools:
- Google Docs, Forms & Slides: For notes, quizzes, and presentations
- Canva: For lesson graphics, posters, and worksheets
- Kahoot or Quizizz: For fun formative assessments
- YouTube: For creating and watching video lessons
- ClassPoint / ClassDojo: For interactive classroom management
Sample ICT Training Session Plan (2 Hours)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10 mins | Introduction and objective setting |
| 30 mins | Hands-on demo: Creating a Google Form quiz |
| 30 mins | Practice session (teachers create and share their quiz) |
| 20 mins | Peer feedback and corrections |
| 10 mins | Tips for classroom use |
| 20 mins | Showcase: Volunteers present their quizzes |
| Final mins | Wrap-up and evaluation |
Success Story: Transforming Teaching at Emmanuel Secondary School
In 2024, Emmanuel SS conducted a 4-week ICT Bootcamp for teachers with help from the district ICT officer. Every Wednesday afternoon, teachers learned about tools like Microsoft Excel for grading, YouTube for lesson recording, and Canva for classroom posters. By the end of the term:
- Over 75% of teachers had created a video lesson
- The school launched a digital library on its LAN
- Learner engagement increased, especially in sciences
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Transformative ICT training doesn’t require fancy labs or massive budgets. It starts with a shared vision, a practical plan, and a commitment to grow together. Celebrate small wins, keep learning, and create a culture where every teacher feels empowered to innovate.
Every teacher can be a digital change-maker if we give them the time, the tools, and the trust to try.
