Integration of ICT in the Teaching-Learning Process: Challenges and Issues Faced by Social Science Teachers

Abstract

The major objective of this study was to evaluate the challenges and issues faced by social science teachers on the Integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the teaching-learning process. This study was conducted in three education zones in Sri Lanka which represent the diverse socio-cultural and economic conditions of the country. Online interviews were conducted with twenty-four social science teachers teaching in junior secondary classes. The results revealed that (i) teachers are facing challenges in accessing ICT resources; (ii) they have issues in skill development related to ICT; (iii) there were disparities in the availability of ICT resources among schools and (iv) there was difference in the quality of ICT infrastructure among schools. Further, the study found that teachers are facing some barriers while using ICT in the teaching-learning process such as inadequate ICT resources, rigid rules and regulations in the school administration, absence of transition time between periods in the school timetable and non-availability of facilities to repair and maintain the computers. The study suggests that appropriate actions should be undertaken by educational policymakers and other relevant personnel to address this issue in the school system.