• At the very initial stage, psychological or affective factors are critically
important. One of the main goals is to decrease teachers'
fears of computers, and to show new learners that they are able to
use a computer. Confidence is as important as competence.
• Most of the professional life of teachers is spent at home. Many
of the basic ICT skills relevant at this initial stage are of value in
their personal lives. Confidence and competence can be acquired
through autonomous work, using carefully prepared learning
materials and, where possible, some distance interactions
through appropriate communication tools.
• Teachers, like all learners, need to be provided with opportunities
to make mistakes. Such opportunities are often best provided
in arranging professional development programmes for small
groups of teachers with similar needs.
• At the initial stage of ICT development, many teachers are
affected by serious motor-skill difficulties. The most basic motor
skills (e.g. pointing, clicking, and dragging with a mouse) need to
be mastered before developing skills to use ICT tools: mastery is
about confidence and self-esteem.