Symbolic Learning through Information and Communication Technology in Pakistani Universities: Prospects and Possibilities

Abstract

Bandura (1977) presented the social learning theory. It focused on propagation of a symbolic learning model where learning takes place by observing and experiencing things particularly in digitalized form. The students of today are exposed to a lot of things; they watch experience interact daily so their learning has become broadened by joining world communities and cyber space, sharing and affecting the world by their actions, ideas and beliefs. They are exposed to different contents which they may not have seen or observed. The objectives of the study were to find out the possibilities and prospects of symbolic learning use in universities. The students of social sciences from the twelve selected universities were the accessible population of the study. A nine item questionnaire was used to carry out this survey research. The data were analysed by using SPSS descriptive statistics and frequencies. The study explored the possibilities and prospects of using ICT as a tool for application of symbolic learning. It explored availability and access of the students at university level that can make one of the major component of symbolic learning. It is found that the universities are providing facilities to students and the students themselves have access and availability of information and communication technology. It was recommended to develop digital contents apart from bringing in the already developed contents to the country. The teachers need to be equipped by knowledge and use of ICT. Mobile phone may also be used as a device for learning.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n5s1p35