USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN TEACHING AND LEARNING IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS: RELEVANCE, CHALLENGES AND ETHICAL CONCERNS

This study sought to ascertain the relevance of the use of information and communication technology (ICT), its challenges and ethical concerns in teaching and learning in in emergency situations. Some instances of such situations are natural disasters and outbreak of diseases. A case in hand about such diseases is the current Corona Virus Pandemic. Using a qualitative method of conceptual frame and critical analysis, the paper explored the meanings and imports of technology, information technology, communication technology and information and communication technology, in reference to teaching and learning in emergency situations. It was discovered that these concepts, though interrelated, are not exactly the same, and that information and communication technology is better understood in the light or backdrop of technology itself. The components of ICT were discussed, leading to the ascertainment of the relevance of and challenges to ICT in teaching and learning in emergency situations, as well as ethical issues emanating from the use of ICT. In the course of the analytical exploration, the roles of stakeholders such as parents, teachers, students and the government were highlighted. Based on the insight gained from the discourse, the paper came to a conclusion that the relevance of the use of ICT in teaching and learning in emergency situations is indisputable, but not without some challenges. Although ethical issues constitute a challenge of its own in the context of ICT, it is believed that their proper understanding and application by various stakeholders, especially teachers and students, will be of immense help in overcoming other challenges facing the use of ICT in teaching and learning. In the light of the conclusion arrived at, the paper recommended, among others, that teachers at all levels of education be well knowledgeable in the use of ICT in teaching and learning, with its ethical concerns, so as to be able to guide students properly, and students endeavor to be discreet in their use of the internet, while government should legislate and provide enabling environments that will make online teaching and learning thrive in emergency situations.