ICT

Podcast 1 · Introduction

ICT

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun (abbreviation)

Pronunciation

eye-see-TEE  /ˌaɪsiːˈtiː/

Definition

Abbreviation for Information and Communications Technology — the umbrella term for all technologies used to handle telecommunications, broadcast media, audio-visual processing, network-based control and monitoring functions, and information systems. In UK education, ICT is a school subject covering computing, digital literacy, and the use of technology.

Plain meaning

ICT stands for Information and Communications Technology. It covers computers, the internet, mobile phones, networks, data management, and all the technologies involved in creating, storing, and communicating information. In British schools, ICT (later replaced by 'Computing') was the subject that taught students how to use computers and understand digital technology.

Register

Technical and educational. ICT is used in UK education, government, international development, and business contexts. The full phrase Information and Communications Technology is more formal; ICT is the standard abbreviation across all these contexts.