CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Nowadays, in this digital era, the rapid growth in almost every aspect of computer technology has outgrown human imagination and expectations. Though the computer has a lot of applications in diverse fields, one should not neglect its applications in the aspect or area of education. Computer is now primary in teaching and learning and as such, very useful and helpful in the teaching and learning process, therefore effective use of computer (computer mediated instruction) is very much needed for teachers, learners, as well as creative arts students. The computer has giving us a revolving platform in education and the nature of learning process. It has great effect upon our educational system and as such, teachers should be in good terms with the physical reality of the computers and also learn how to take precise and concrete advantage of the computer’s educational potential. Previous studies showed that over two million college students were enrolled in some form of web-based education in 2002 and more than 90 percent of U.S. colleges and universities offered online options in the year 2005.Online learning has encouraged educational technologists to argue the most appropriate role for new technology. Computer mediated instruction/learning is an umbrella term that explains the efficient and effective use of computer and/or technology to support and facilitate and foster teaching and learning activities (Bull, Kimball & Stansberry, 1998).
Computer knowledge can be said to be understanding about the diverse key aspects of computers and the basic skills attached to the operations of computers. It also eclipses the applications of computer in teaching and learning processes. One medium through which computers can be used in the teaching and learning processes is the Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) technology. Computer-based instruction among students, jss creative arts students precisely, encourages collaborative learning strategies, helps them to develop social skills and self-esteem. It has also been revealed that creative arts students often times are not properly exposed to computer and this badly affects them especially in identifying colors with the help of computer mediated instruction. This is because most schools do not offer programs. Also, because almost everyone have the notion that the arts are useless and cannot be implemented by children. Students encounter problems in identifying and mixing colors most times because they are not exposed to visual arts education. Art is a special and unusual way of knowing and understanding the world. Visual arts education helps to develop and enhance sensory awareness, enhances sensibilities and gives special attention to ways of learning, experimenting and inventing and implementing. The visual arts curriculum provides for a comprehensive range of activities that aids the child to develop and nurture ideas through imagery, therefore providing a relevant balance to the wider curriculum. Knowledge of visual art can contribute positively to children’s sense of personal and cultural identity; assist them in achievement in identification of colors and to their whole development. Visual arts activities aid children to make sense of and to express their world in visual, précised form.