Exploring challenges in the use of the provided information communication technology in schools of Seplan : a case study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the challenges in the use of provided ICT equipment in the schools of Seplan Circuit. The DBE initiated numerous programmes of providing ICT equipment in schools of Seplan Circuit for over a decade now. Furthermore, it has partnered with numerous stakeholders to ensure that every school should be provided with ICT equipment and that every teacher must have their laptop. However, some identified schools have shown that the provided ICT equipment have not been used. That constituted the central problem to be addressed by this study because there is a need to establish why schools do not use the provided ICT equipment when global acknowledgments agree that the use of ICT equipment in schools is significant in transforming the education of a nation. A qualitative research approach was implemented to explore the challenges. A case study design involving four secondary schools from the Seplan Circuit was considered appropriate for this study. The qualitative research tool that was adopted was semi-structured interviews, while non-participant observation was employed to check the status of ICT equipment. From each school, four teachers and the principal were considered for the structured interviews. Analysis of the data responses was performed using content analysis. Empirical evidence from this study revealed that most secondary schools did not use the provided ICT equipment. It emerged that although schools were provided with a lot of ICT equipment, they had very limited exposure and training on how to use them; others pointed out that traditional methods of teaching were the best, hence, their limited implementation thereof. School principals further pointed out the extra burden that arises from the use of provided ICT equipment in terms of security, and extra costs to the school for maintenance and accountability. Based on the literature review and findings, the study recommends the collaborative design of an improved ICT training programme is important both at the school level and Departmental level. The study also recommends that more financial resources need to be allocated to ICT equipment so that schools will be able to repair and maintain their ICT equipment. Further study can be conducted while teachers are performing lesson presentation.