Utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) tools by teaching staff in agricultural education

Information Communication Technology (ICT) consists of a distinct set of technological tools and resources to create, disseminate, store and manage data and information. Conventional ICT tools like T.V., radio and telephone have already established their credibility and effectiveness in promoting the developmental schemes in rural and backward areas. The modern ICT tools are computers, internet and wireless communication technology in addition of powerful software’s which can process and integrate sound, text and video into electronic media. ICT has the ability to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world scenario. They may use ICT as a tool to identify, analyze, exchange and present information as per their need. Information and communication technology (ICT) in education is the method of education that use information and communication technology to support, improve, and optimize the delivery of information. Information and communication technology can lead to improved student learning and superior teaching methods. The findings regarding utilization of ICT tools by the teachers may help the administrators and policy makers for formulating effective implementation strategy and policies regarding. The paper aims to study extent utilization of ICT tools by teaching staff in Agricultural Education. The data were collected through Questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and Garrett rank analyses have been used in the analysis. Results of the study revealed that one third (38.00%) of Agriculture University teachers used ICT tools at medium extent and the most extent utilization ICT tool by teachers was Internet/ web services. Hence internet was highly used by teachers (92.00%) for gaining knowledge and majority (94.00%) of the teachers preferred internet more due to saves time.