The practices and challenges of ICT utilization in teaching-learning process: The case of Bonga College of Teacher Education

Abstract

The primary purpose of the study was to examine the practices and challenges of ICT utilization in teaching-learning process in Bonga College of teacher education. The research design employed in this study was mixed approach. Among mixed research designs, concurrent embedded (nested) was applied. The sources of data were college instructors, third-year student teachers in the academic year 2020/21 and administrative staff members. The study adopted a questionnaire, semi-structured interview and observation to generate the required data. The data obtained from the study participants were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The result of the study revealed that the perception of majority of stakeholders on the use of ICT in teaching-learning process as very important and perceive it positively. The level of availability of ICT infrastructures in the college was found to be too low extent. Thecurrent practices of ICT utilization in the particular college of teacher education are at their beginning/early stages. The major factors that hinder ICT utilization in the college were: low technology availability, lack of technical support, inadequate administrative support, shortage of training , absence of ICT policy, lack of knowledge and skills, poor connectivity and lack of time to use ICTs were among the challenges. Thus, to lessen these problems, the college as a higher educational institution should provide appropriate emphasis on developing a positive perception of administration that enables them support in ICT utilization. There should be adequate ICT infrastructures so that the college instructors, student-teachers and administrative bodies to utilize it in teaching-learning process. The college leadership should also play a vital role in the utilization of ICT in education. The college should develop strategies concerning improving ICT use in teaching and learning by addressing the various challenges, specifically, continuous training on ICT utilization and the college should employ competent computer technicians.