Integration of ICTs in the training of English Students in times of Covid-19

Abstract

The integration of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) in education has become a vital role in recent times. The purpose of this paper was to explore perceptions and challenges lecturers and student-teachers were facing on the integration of ICTs in education. A qualitative approach with a case study was employed, whose sample consisted of the five English lecturers and ten student-teachers specialising in English at The International University of Management (IUM). Data was collected with open ended questionnaires and analysed by established themes. Key findings revealed that ICTs plays central role in facilitating teaching and learning activities for English language. ICTs have turned traditional classrooms into virtual spaces that are more interactive and engaging, thereby motivating students to learn. The integration of ICTs was faced by challenges related to the high cost of technologies and the cost of internet connectivity for optimal use of the technologies. The study concluded that ICTs are essential for teaching and learning especially during the current uncertain times of Covid-19. Hence, the study recommends that stakeholders should mobilise resources to improve the provisions and usage of ICTs in educational institutions.